Key Takeaways
- United allows minor name corrections for free but not ticket transfers.
- Legal name changes need supporting documents such as a passport or marriage certificate.
- You can correct names online, by phone, or through airport agents.
- Tickets booked via travel agencies must be corrected through the same provider.
Booking errors happen and for travelers, one of the most common is typing your name incorrectly. United Airlines passengers often ask, “Can I change the name on my ticket?”
The short answer: yes, if it’s still your ticket.
You can fix typos or update your name legally after marriage or other changes. However, transferring a ticket to someone else is never allowed.
This guide walks through how to change a name on your United Airlines ticket, which documents you’ll need, and how to avoid delays before your next flight.
Can You Change a Name on a United Ticket?
United distinguishes between name corrections (small fixes) and name changes (different person).
- Corrections like misspellings, initials, or missing middle names are allowed.
- Changes that switch the passenger entirely are not.
| Type of Change | Allowed? | Documents Needed | Fee |
| Misspelled first or last name | Yes | None | Free |
| Adding or removing middle name | Yes | None | Free |
| Legal name change (marriage/divorce) | Yes | Legal proof | Free |
| Gender correction | Yes | ID or legal document | Free |
| Transfer to another person | No | Not applicable | Not allowed |
If your flight was booked through Expedia, Orbitz, or another agent, you must contact them directly to process corrections. United cannot edit third-party tickets.
How to Request a Name Correction
1. Online via United.com
If booked directly:
- Sign in to My Trips on united.com.
- Choose your flight and click “Edit traveler information.”
- Update spelling errors or minor corrections.
If the option is locked, United will prompt you to contact customer service.
2. By Phone or Chat
Call 1-800-UNITED-1 (864-8331) or message United via the mobile app chat feature.
Have your confirmation number ready. For legal changes, upload your document when requested.
3. At the Airport Counter
If you realize the error on travel day, visit the United ticket desk before check-in.
Agents can fix spelling issues immediately, though full name changes still need supporting proof.
Legal Name Change Requests
When your legal name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court order, United will reissue your ticket under your new name at no cost once verified.
Accepted documents include:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court-issued name change order
- Updated passport or driver’s license
Submit these documents via United’s online help form or directly to a support agent.
Tip: Update your MileagePlus profile at the same time to ensure future bookings reflect your correct legal name.
Third-Party and Corporate Bookings
If your reservation was made through a travel agency or corporate booking tool, United cannot process name corrections directly.
You’ll need to contact the original booking source, who will coordinate the update with United’s reservation team.
Processing times usually range from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the agency.
MileagePlus Profile Updates
To ensure future bookings match your ID:
- Log in at united.com.
- Go to Profile → Personal Information → Edit Name.
- Upload ID or documentation if required.
This prevents mismatched names between your ticket and frequent flyer account, which can block mileage accrual.
What Happens If You Don’t Fix the Name
If your ticket name doesn’t match your ID exactly, you could be denied boarding or flagged by TSA. Even small mismatches, such as “Jon” vs. “John” , can cause issues on international routes.
United won’t refund non-refundable tickets due to incorrect names, so review your itinerary immediately after booking.
Want to see how long real name corrections take in practice?
Visit the TalkTravel United Flyers Forum where frequent travelers share case timelines and success tips.
Final Thoughts
Changing the name on a United Airlines ticket is easy, as long as it’s still your name. United allows free corrections for typos or legal changes but not passenger swaps.
Always check your confirmation as soon as you book, and update both your ticket and MileagePlus account if you’ve legally changed your name.
For up-to-date guidance and traveler experiences, explore the TalkTravel United Flyers Forum, where frequent flyers discuss real outcomes, policy updates, and United’s handling of name correction requests.
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