While booking flight tickets, it's easy to make small mistakes, especially when entering your name. Fortunately, Southwest Airlines offers a customer-friendly policy for correcting such errors. However, it’s important to understand the difference between a minor correction and a complete name change, and what is actually allowed under Southwest’s rules.
In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Southwest Airlines name change policy.
Can You Change the Name on a Southwest Ticket?
Yes, Southwest Airlines allows certain types of name changes, but with limitations. If you made a spelling mistake or need to update your name due to a legal reason such as marriage or divorce, you can usually get that corrected. However, Southwest does not allow full ticket transfers to someone else.
In simple terms, correcting a misspelled name is allowed. Giving your ticket to another person is not.
What Kind of Name Changes Are Allowed?
There are two types of changes Southwest accepts:
- Name Corrections:
- Fixing typos in your name, such as switching "Jhon" to "John"
- Correcting spacing or punctuation errors
- Adding or removing a middle name or initial
- Adjusting your name to match your ID
- Legal Name Changes:
- If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court-ordered process, you may request a change by providing valid documentation such as:
- A marriage certificate
- A divorce decree
- A legal name change order
What Is Not Allowed?
Southwest does not allow you to change the name on a ticket to someone else’s name. Tickets are non-transferable. This means that if you booked a flight for yourself and can no longer travel, you cannot give the ticket to another person. You also cannot make changes that result in a completely different passenger name.
Also, if you are a Rapid Rewards member, name changes on your frequent flyer account must go through a separate verification process and do not automatically apply to existing bookings.
How to Request a Name Correction or Change
To update or correct the name on your Southwest ticket, follow these steps:
- Contact Southwest Customer Support. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA or via their website or social media.
- Provide your booking confirmation number and a valid ID.
- If the change is due to legal reasons, send the appropriate documents such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- Wait for confirmation from Southwest. They will update your ticket details and send you a revised confirmation.
Are There Any Fees for Name Changes?
In most cases, Southwest does not charge a fee for minor name corrections. This is one of the benefits of flying with Southwest. However, if the name change requires a ticket to be canceled and rebooked, then a fare difference may apply.
That said, it’s a good idea to make corrections as early as possible to avoid any fare increases or last-minute complications.
Tips to Avoid Name Issues
- Always double-check your name spelling before finalizing your ticket purchase
- Make sure your booking name matches your government-issued ID exactly
- If your name recently changed legally, update your ID before contacting the airline
- Only use official Southwest Airlines channels to make name changes
Final Thoughts
Southwest Airlines is known for its flexible and customer-friendly policies. When it comes to correcting or changing a name on a ticket, they offer a reasonable approach. While they do not allow full name changes to another person, they do accommodate spelling corrections and legal name updates without unnecessary hassle or high fees.
Understanding these rules can help you avoid problems and enjoy a smooth travel experience.
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