What is the name correction policy for United Airlines?

Navigating United Airlines’ Name Correction Policy

Booking a flight should be seamless, but a small typo or legal name change can create big worries. For United Airlines flyers, understanding the name correction policy is key to ensuring smooth boarding and avoiding last‑minute hassles. This article unpacks everything you need to know from minor typos to major legal name changes along with how to handle each scenario effectively.

 

1. Why Name Accuracy Matters

When passing through TSA and airline check‑in, the name on your ticket must exactly match your government‐issued ID. Even a single misplaced initial or misspelling can cause complications at the gate or security. That’s why United and all airlines strictly enforce name accuracy for identity verification and security procedures.

 

2. United’s Name Correction Policy at a Glance

United Airlines allows two main types of name corrections with options varying based on the nature of the change:

• Minor (Simple) Corrections: These include fixing typos, adding or removing a middle initial, adjusting a nickname, or modifying titles. No legal documentation is typically needed.
• Major (Legal) Corrections: Necessary for legal name changes such as those resulting from marriage, divorce, or court orders. You must provide official documentation (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, government‑issued ID showing both old and new names).

When documentation is unavailable, United may accept a notarized affidavit explaining the name change, accompanied by a valid photo ID.

3. Allowed vs. Not Allowed: What You Can and Can’t Do

Allowed:

• Correcting first or last name spelling errors
• Changing or dropping middle names/initials
• Switching between nickname and formal name
• Fixing title variations (Mr., Mrs., etc.)
• Legal name changes with valid documents
• Name corrections via affidavit if documents are missing

Not Allowed:

• Transferring tickets to another person tickets are strictly non‑transferable.
• Large changes beyond typos or legal name changes for example, changing a completely different name.

 

4. How Many Corrections Are Permitted?

United generally allows one correction per reservation or ticket. Subsequent requests might be treated as a new booking or subject to re‑issuance and fees

 

5. How to Request a Name Correction
6. a) Online through “My Trips”

• Visit United’s website and navigate to My Trips or Manage Reservations.
• Enter your confirmation code and last name.
• If eligible, you may see an option for name correction. Make adjustments and follow the prompts.

1. b) Phone Support

• For issues not eligible online (especially legal changes), call United’s customer service. Numbers cited include +1 (844) 940‑3217 and others like 1‑800‑864‑8331 or +1 855‑423‑1867 depending on source.
• Follow guidance to submit information and documents.

1. c) MileagePlus Account

• If you’re a MileagePlus member, you can edit your name via your account profile for minor corrections—without documentation. For legal changes, you may need to upload documents or submit via mail.

1. d) At the Airport

• If online and phone options fail, go to the airport ticket counter well in advance. Staff can help apply corrections, especially when documentation is presented.

1. e) Mailing Name Affidavit

• For legal name changes without documentation, you can send a notarized affidavit to:

MileagePlus Service Center

P.O. Box 1394

Houston, TX 77251‑1394

Include the affidavit plus a copy of your valid ID.

6. Fees and Timing

• Within 24 hours of booking: Minor corrections are often allowed free of charge, though this isn’t guaranteed.
• Beyond 24 hours, up to 2 hours before departure: Fees may range from $75 to $200 for corrections, plus any fare difference if applicable.
• Legal name changes: May incur a processing fee and will require documentation.

Fees and timelines can vary based on fare class (e.g., Saver fares have tighter restrictions) and when you request the change. Acting early helps minimize costs.

 

7. Step-by-Step Scenarios

Scenario A: You Notice a Typo Soon After Booking

1. Log in to My Trips within 24 hours.
2. If name correction is available, update it directly.
3. If not, call United immediately explain and request a correction.
4. Confirm the update before the 24-hour window closes.

Scenario B: Name Change Due to Marriage

1. Access My Trips or contact customer service.
2. Provide your booking number and explain the legal name change.
3. Submit required documents (marriage certificate or affidavit + ID) online, via mail, or in person.
4. Pay any required fee and confirm once updated.

Scenario C: Close-Approaching Flight with No Time

1. Head to the airport counter ASAP.
2. Present ID and supporting documentation.
3. Staff may apply the change if feasible this is best done with ample lead time.

 

8. Additional Tips & Considerations

• Always double-check name details immediately after booking to avoid complexity later.
• Saver fares and Basic Economy tickets may have stricter rules document submissions or any changes might be more limited.
• If you reach out via third-party sites or helplines, be cautious—always verify policy with official United Airlines sources.
• Keep confirmation emails after changes. These can help resolve disputes at the airport.
• If planning international travel, ensure that the name aligns exactly with your passport to avoid visa or immigration issues.

 

9. Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?
No United tickets are non-transferable for security and revenue control reasons. Only corrections for the original passenger are allowed.

Q2: What if I forgot to add my middle name?
This qualifies as a minor correction. You can add or remove a middle name via My Trips or by contacting customer service.

Q3: Is there a time deadline before departure?
Name corrections should generally be done at least a couple of days before the flight. Airport staff can assist last-minute, but success isn’t guaranteed.

Q4: How long do legal changes take?
Processing for legal changes including affidavit submissions can take up to two weeks, especially if shipped by mail.

Q5: Are there exceptions?
Rules may vary based on ticket type and fare class. Always confirm the specifics when you initiate a correction request.

 

10. Summary Table

Type of Change	Documentation Required?	Fee (Typical)	How to Request
Minor typo (e.g., typo, title, middle name)	No	Free (within 24h), $75–$200 after	My Trips, phone, airport
Legal name change (e.g., marriage/divorce)	Yes—certificate or affidavit	Varies—fare difference + processing fee	Phone, MileagePlus, affidavit by mail, in person
Completely new passenger	Not allowed	N/A	Must cancel & rebook under new name

 

Conclusion

United Airlines offers a practical, tiered approach to name corrections, accommodating simple typos as well as significant legal changes with options to apply online, via phone, in person, or by affidavit. The key to a smooth fix is acting promptly, knowing what’s allowed, and having the right documentation ready. Always verify details based on your fare class and booking status, and keep confirmation of any changes you make. Safe travels!