Can I Change the Name on My Ticket with Southwest?

If you have booked a flight with Southwest Airlines and need to change the name on your ticket, you may be wondering what your options are. Whether due to a simple typo or a legal name change, understanding Southwest’s policies on name changes can save you time and hassle.

Does Southwest Allow Name Changes on Tickets?

Southwest Airlines does not allow full name changes on tickets. This means that you cannot transfer your ticket to another person by changing the name on the reservation. Unlike some airlines that permit name transfers for a fee, Southwest requires the original ticket holder to be the one who travels. However, minor corrections due to misspellings or legal name changes are allowed under certain conditions.

How to Correct a Misspelled Name on a Southwest Ticket

If you made a small mistake when booking your ticket, such as a typo in your name, southwest allows you to correct it. To fix a misspelled name on a Southwest ticket, you should:

1. Contact Southwest Airlines – Call Southwest’s customer service or visit their ticket counter at the airport to request the correction.
2. Provide Proof of the Correct Name – You may need to show identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to confirm the correct spelling.
3. Ensure the Name Matches Your ID – The name on your ticket must match your government-issued ID exactly, or you may face issues during check-in and security screening.

Changing a Name Due to Marriage or Legal Reasons

If you have legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or another reason, Southwest allows corrections to reflect your new legal name. To make a legal name change on a Southwest ticket, you should:

• Provide official documentation such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order to verify the name change.
• Contact Southwest Customer Service as soon as possible to request the update.
• Ensure your name is updated on your Rapid Rewards account (if applicable) to avoid future issues.

What if You Need to Transfer Your Ticket to Someone Else?

Southwest does not allow ticket transfers to another person. If you booked a ticket but can no longer travel, you have a couple of options:

1. Cancel and Rebook – If you cancel your flight, you may receive a Travel Credit (depending on the fare type) that can be used for future Southwest flights. You can then book a new ticket in the correct person’s name.
2. Use Southwest’s No-Change-Fee Policy – If you need to reschedule your flight, southwest allows you to change your flight without paying a change fee (fare differences may apply).

Final Thoughts

While Southwest Airlines does not allow full name changes or ticket transfers, they do permit minor corrections for typos and legal name updates. If you need to change the name on a Southwest ticket, it is best to contact customer service as soon as possible. Always ensure your name matches your ID to avoid travel disruptions.

Read Also: Southwest airlines flight change fee

By understanding Southwest name change policies, you can avoid complications and ensure a smooth travel experience.