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Avoid Costly Mistakes: United Airlines’ Name Change Policy Explained In Detail

Jane is the creator and editor of Plane Jane Trips, a website dedicated to sharing travel tips and tricks for air travel on a budget. With over 15 years of experience planning affordable getaways, Jane loves helping fellow travelers save money while still enjoying memorable vacations.

What To Know

  • For minors traveling alone or with an adult other than their legal guardian, a parent or legal guardian must contact United Airlines to request a name change.
  • By adhering to the eligibility criteria, following the appropriate procedures, and being aware of the associated fees, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free process for changing your name on a United Airlines ticket.
  • Can I change my name on a United Airlines ticket at the airport without paying a fee.

Traveling plans often involve unexpected changes, including the need to modify flight bookings. If you find yourself needing to adjust your name on a United Airlines ticket, understanding their name change policy becomes crucial. This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of United Airlines’ name change policy, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for your travel adjustments.

Changing Your Name on United Airlines: The Basics

United Airlines allows passengers to make name changes on their tickets, subject to specific conditions and fees. The primary requirement is that the new name matches the name on the government-issued identification that will be presented at the airport.

Fees Associated with Name Changes

The cost of changing your name on a United Airlines ticket varies depending on the fare class and the timing of the change. Generally, name changes made within 24 hours of booking are free of charge. Beyond that, fees apply as follows:

  • Domestic flights: $200 for changes made within 48 hours of departure, $300 for changes made after 48 hours.
  • International flights: $300 for changes made within 48 hours of departure, $400 for changes made after 48 hours.

Eligibility Criteria for Name Changes

To be eligible for a name change on United Airlines, certain criteria must be met:

  • The name change must be requested by the original passenger named on the ticket.
  • The new name must match the name on the government-issued identification that will be used for travel.
  • The ticket must not have been purchased using a miles or points redemption.
  • The ticket must not be a group or charter ticket.

How to Change Your Name on a United Airlines Ticket

There are several convenient ways to change your name on a United Airlines ticket:

  • Online: Visit the United Airlines website, log in to your account, and navigate to your booking. Select the “Change Name” option and follow the instructions.
  • Phone: Call United Airlines reservations at 1-800-864-8331 and speak to a representative who can assist with the name change.
  • Airport: Visit the United Airlines ticket counter at the airport and request a name change. However, it’s important to note that airport name changes may incur additional fees.

Name Changes for Minors

For minors traveling alone or with an adult other than their legal guardian, a parent or legal guardian must contact United Airlines to request a name change. The parent or guardian must provide proof of their relationship to the minor, such as a birth certificate or legal documentation.

Name Changes Due to Marriage or Divorce

In the event of a legal name change due to marriage or divorce, United Airlines requires passengers to provide documentation supporting the change. This may include a marriage certificate or divorce decree.

Grace Period for Name Misspellings

United Airlines offers a grace period for minor name misspellings on tickets. If the misspelling is within one letter of the correct name, it will generally be accepted at the airport without the need for a formal name change.

Wrap-Up: Navigating United Airlines Name Change Policy

Understanding United Airlines’ name change policy is essential for making necessary adjustments to your travel arrangements. By adhering to the eligibility criteria, following the appropriate procedures, and being aware of the associated fees, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free process for changing your name on a United Airlines ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I change my name on a United Airlines ticket after check-in?
A: Yes, you can change your name after check-in, but additional fees may apply.

Q: What happens if I need to change my name on a United Airlines ticket purchased with miles or points?
A: Name changes on tickets purchased with miles or points are not permitted.

Q: Can I change my name on a United Airlines group or charter ticket?
A: Name changes on group or charter tickets are not permitted without the consent of the group or charter organizer.

Q: How long does it take for a name change to be processed?
A: Name changes are typically processed within 24 hours.

Q: Can I change my name on a United Airlines ticket at the airport without paying a fee?
A: No, name changes at the airport generally incur an additional fee.

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Jane

Jane is the creator and editor of Plane Jane Trips, a website dedicated to sharing travel tips and tricks for air travel on a budget. With over 15 years of experience planning affordable getaways, Jane loves helping fellow travelers save money while still enjoying memorable vacations.
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