Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy – Complete 2025 Guide for Passengers
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The Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy allows passengers to correct spelling errors or update personal details on a ticket before travel. Full name transfers to another person are not permitted, but corrections and legal updates are possible if you follow the airlines rules and timelines.
Why You Should Understand the Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy
If you have booked a ticket with an incorrect name, even a minor spelling error can cause boarding issues. Airlines must match passenger names with the government-issued ID or passport exactly. This is why knowing the Southwest Airlines Name Change Policyrules and process can save you from:
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Denied boarding due to mismatched names
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Additional change fees if you miss the correction window
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Travel delays when security flags a mismatched name
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Losing your ticket value if the name issue isnt fixed
Key Points of the Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy
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Spelling mistakes can usually be corrected without a major fee.
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Legal name changes (due to marriage, divorce, or court order) require documentation.
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Ticket transfers to another person are not allowed.
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All requests must be made before check-in.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your Name on a Southwest Airlines Ticket
Step 1: Review the Type of Name Change You Need
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Minor spelling correction e.g., Jonh to John
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Full legal change e.g., Mary Smith to Mary Johnson after marriage
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
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For spelling corrections no documentation is usually needed.
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For legal changes marriage certificate, court order, or updated passport.
Step 3: Contact Southwest Airlines
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Phone: Call customer support at +1-888-595-2181
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Online: Log into your Southwest account and access your booking
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Airport desk: Speak with a Southwest representative
Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees
Heres a table showing possible Southwest Airlines name correction fees:
| Type of Change | Fee | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Minor spelling correction | $0 $50 | Up to 24 hours before departure |
| Legal name change | $0 $150 | Before check-in closes |
| Ticket transfer to another person | Not allowed | N/A |
Step 5: Confirm the Change
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Request a confirmation email with your updated itinerary.
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Verify your boarding pass displays the correct legal name.
Southwest Airlines Name Correction vs. Ticket Transfer
Many travelers confuse name correction with ticket transfer. Under the Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy, you can only correct your own name not replace the passenger with someone else.
Important Timeframes to Remember
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Within 24 hours of booking: Most corrections are free.
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After 24 hours but before check-in: Fees may apply.
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At the airport on departure day: Limited corrections possible.
When You Cannot Change a Name
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If you try to change the passenger entirely.
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If you booked through a third-party site with strict rules.
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If your ticket is a promotional fare with no change flexibility.
Southwest Airlines Reservation Update Policy
If your name change also requires flight date changes or seat adjustments, you should review the Southwest Airlines Reservation Policy. This ensures your updated details match your booking accurately.
Related Policy Southwest Airlines Cancellation Policy
If your name cannot be corrected in time, you may have to cancel your booking. Learn more about the Southwest Airlines Cancellation Policy to recover your ticket value.
Tips to Avoid Name Change Problems
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Double-check your name before confirming a booking.
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Keep your travel ID updated after legal changes.
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Contact the airline as soon as you notice an error.
People Also Ask Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy FAQs
Can I change my name on a Southwest Airlines ticket?
Yes, you can correct misspellings or update your name due to legal changes, as long as you provide proper documentation.
How much does Southwest Airlines charge for name correction?
Minor corrections can be free or cost up to $50. Legal changes may cost up to $150.
Is it possible to transfer a Southwest Airlines ticket to another name?
No, Southwest Airlines does not allow ticket transfers to a different passenger.
Can I update my Southwest Airlines reservation after a name change?
Yes, you can update your reservation to reflect your new name, but changes must be made before check-in closes.
Call for Expert Help
If you need assistance with Southwest Airlines name correction, contact travel experts at +1-888-595-2181 for quick support.
