hen travel plans change, your passenger details must be accurate to avoid boarding issues. At My Flight Policy, we’ve seen countless travelers panic at the last minute because their name on the ticket didn’t match their government-issued ID. The good news? Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy provides clear guidelines for fixing such errors — whether it’s a small spelling mistake or a legal name update.
Below, we’ve compiled expert insights, practical steps, and official rules so you can change your name smoothly and keep your travel stress-free.
Why Name Accuracy Is So Critical on S
outhwest Airlines Tickets
Airlines are bound by TSA and aviation regulations — even a single letter mismatch between your ID and ticket can lead to denied boarding. With Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy, your ticket must reflect your full legal name exactly as shown on your government-issued identification. This is part of both security compliance and passenger identity verification.
Key Risks of Incorrect Name on Your Booking:
Delays during airport check-in
Possible rebooking costs
Risk of trip cancellations if the mismatch is not fixed in time
Q&A: Common Questions About Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy
Q1: Can I change the name on my Southwest Airlines ticket after booking?
Yes, Southwest Airlines allows name corrections and legal name updates under specific conditions. The process varies depending on whether it’s:
A minor correction (e.g., typo, missing middle name)
A legal change (e.g., marriage, divorce, court order)
Q2: Does Southwest Airlines charge a fee for name changes?
Minor corrections are generally free of charge.
Full name changes may require proof of legal change and could involve fare difference payments.
Q3: Can I transfer my Southwest Airlines ticket to someone else?
No, Southwest Airlines tickets are non-transferable. The name change policy only applies to correcting or updating your own details — not replacing one traveler with another.
Step-by-Step: How to Correct or Change a Name on Your Southwest Airlines Ticket
We’ve broken this into a practical checklist so you know exactly what to do.
Step 1 – Review Your Ticket Immediately Check your booking confirmation and compare it to your government-issued ID.
Step 2 – Identify the Type of Change Needed
Minor correction → single letter fix or typo.
Legal name update → requires documentation.
Step 3 – Gather Required Documentation Examples include:
Marriage certificate
Divorce decree
Court order
Step 4 – Contact Southwest Airlines Directly Call +1-877-271-4004 (My Flight Policy’s assistance line) for fast guidance, or reach Southwest Airlines Customer Support.
Step 5 – Receive Confirmation Ensure you receive an updated itinerary showing your corrected name.
Legal Name Change vs. Minor Correction – What’s the Difference?
Minor Name Correction:
Changing a letter or fixing spacing
Adding/removing middle names
No major documentation needed
Legal Name Change:
Result of marriage, divorce, or official decree
Requires legal proof
Sometimes involves fare recalculation
Pro Tips from My Flight Policy Experts
Always double-check your details during booking. Act quickly — some changes can be processed within hours if caught early.Keep digital and physical copies of your legal documents for quick submission.
Official Southwest Airlines Stance on Name Change Requests
Southwest Airlines emphasizes:
Name on the ticket must match government-issued ID
Tickets cannot be transferred to a different passenger
Documentation is required for legal changes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I fix a single letter mistake on my Southwest Airlines ticket online? A: Yes, small typos can often be corrected online or through the call center.
Q2: Will I lose my seat after changing my name? A: No, your reservation remains intact — only your personal information is updated.
Q3: How long does it take to process a legal name change? A: Typically 24–48 hours after submitting required documentation.
Contact My Flight Policy for Assistance
If you’re unsure about the Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy or need urgent help, call +1-877-271-4004. Our advisors can guide you through:
Correcting typos
Submitting legal documents
Avoiding travel disruptions