Booking a flight is exciting until you realize there’s a mistake in the passenger’s name or the person who was supposed to fly can no longer go. In such cases, travelers want to know whether they can change the name on a Southwest Airlines ticket or transfer the ticket to someone else.
This guide explains Southwest Airlines’ official policies on name changes and transfers, what types of corrections are allowed, whether fees apply, and how to handle name-related issues before your flight.
Understanding the Difference: Name Correction vs. Name Change
Before we dive into the details, it’s essential to distinguish between name corrections and ticket transfers.
- Name correction: Fixing a typo, adding a missing middle name, or updating your last name after marriage.
- Name change or transfer: Changing the name on the ticket so someone else can travel in your place.
Southwest Airlines allows minor name corrections for the same traveler. However, the airline does not allow full name changes or transfers to another person, regardless of the fare type.
Does Southwest Allow Name Changes?
Yes for the Same Passenger
Southwest permits name corrections if the mistake is minor and the intent is to identify the same traveler as listed on the government-issued ID. For instance:
- Correcting a typo (e.g., “Jonh” to “John”)
- Adding or fixing a middle initial
- Changing a title (Mr., Mrs., etc.)
- Updating your last name after marriage or divorce
You cannot change the name to someone else’s. If the person who originally booked the flight cannot travel, the ticket must be canceled. Depending on the fare, you may get a refund or travel credit but it will stay under the original traveler’s name and cannot be transferred.
What Kind of Name Corrections Are Allowed?
Southwest is fairly flexible when it comes to correcting small name errors. These include:
- Spelling mistakes up to three letters
- Correcting misplaced first/last names
- Adding or removing hyphens
- Fixing suffixes (Jr., Sr.) or titles (Dr., Mrs.)
These changes can often be done by contacting customer service and providing proof of the correct name.
Legal Name Changes
If your name legally changed due to marriage, divorce, adoption, or court order, Southwest may allow you to update your ticket, as long as you’re the same traveler.
In these cases, you’ll need to provide legal documents, such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order
- Updated government-issued ID
Are There Any Fees to Change a Name?
Southwest is one of the few airlines that does not charge extra fees for many services—including name corrections. Here’s how their policy works:
Within 24 Hours of Booking
If you spot a name error right after booking, correct it within 24 hours, and there will usually be no fees at all. Just call customer service or use online chat support.
After 24 Hours
For changes made after 24 hours, minor corrections are still possible and often free. However, if the correction is complicated or requires reissuing the ticket, a fee may apply. This is rare but can happen, especially with international tickets.
Pro Tip: The sooner you contact Southwest, the easier and cheaper the correction process will be.
Can I Transfer My Southwest Ticket to Someone Else?
Unfortunately, the answer is no.
Southwest Airlines has a strict policy that prohibits ticket transfers. Once a reservation is booked under a specific name, it cannot be switched to another person. This applies to all fare types, including:
- Wanna Get Away
- Anytime
- Business Select
Even if the original traveler can’t go, the ticket cannot be transferred or reused by someone else.
What Are My Options if I Can’t Travel?
If you’re the person named on the ticket and can’t fly, you have a few choices depending on the fare you purchased:
Wanna Get Away Fare
This is Southwest’s most affordable fare but is non-refundable. If you cancel, you’ll receive travel credits for future use but only in your name.
Anytime or Business Select Fare
These fares are refundable. You can cancel and get your money back or use the funds to rebook.
Travel Funds Policy
If you cancel your ticket:
- You must use the travel funds within 12 months of the booking date.
- The credit remains attached to the original traveler’s name.
In short, while you can’t transfer the ticket, you can reuse its value for a future trip as long as you’re the same passenger.
How to Make a Name Correction on Southwest
If you notice a name mistake, take the following steps:
- Call Southwest Customer Service at 1-800-435-9792.
- Have your confirmation number ready.
- Explain the error and provide the correct name as it appears on your ID.
- Submit documents if needed (e.g., marriage certificate).
- Let the agent assist you with making the change.
Alternatively, you can also:
- Use the Southwest App or “Manage Reservations” tool.
- Contact them via Twitter, Facebook, or online chat for simple corrections.
Tips to Avoid Name Mistakes When Booking
- Always double-check your name before submitting the booking.
- Use your full legal name as it appears on your government-issued ID.
- Avoid using nicknames or abbreviations.
- Book directly on southwest.com to ensure easier support.
- Review your confirmation email immediately after booking.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines is known for its flexible policies, but ticket transfers are not allowed. Once you book a flight in your name, only you can fly. However, if there’s a small typo or legal name change, Southwest often allows you to fix the name—usually without any major hassle or cost.
To avoid problems, always enter your correct legal name when booking and check your confirmation immediately. And if an issue comes up, act fast and reach out to customer service.
With the right steps, you can correct most name issues and enjoy a smooth flying experience with Southwest.
FAQs
Q: Can I just cancel and rebook the ticket in someone else’s name?
A: If it’s a refundable fare, yes. Otherwise, the credit stays under your name.
Q: Will TSA allow me to fly if the name is slightly off?
A: TSA requires your name to match your ID. Small differences might slide, but it’s not guaranteed. Always correct it in advance.
Q: What if I booked through a third party (like Expedia)?
A: Contact the booking platform, but changes must still follow Southwest’s policy.