Why Name Accuracy Matters on Southwest
- Southwest requires your ticket name to match your government ID exactly
- Security and boarding systems strictly enforce this rule
- Even a single letter error can cause denial of boarding
- Fixing mistakes early avoids check‑in problems or delays
What Counts as a Minor Name Error
Southwest defines minor corrections as:
- Typographical mistakes (e.g. “Adan” instead of “Adam”)
- Swapped first and middle names
- Forgotten or extra middle initials
- Punctuation updates (e.g. hyphens or apostrophes)
- Capitalization differences or spacing corrections
As long as the passenger remains the same individual, Southwest generally allows these corrections.
What Is Not Allowed: Name Transfers
- Southwest does not permit transferring a ticket to someone else
- If the name does not refer to the same person, cancellation and a new booking is required
- Southwest fares are tied to the individual flying
Legal Name Changes Are Allowed
Southwest accepts legal name change corrections for reasons such as marriage or court order. Acceptable documents include:
- Marriage certificate
- Government-issued name change decree
- Updated passport or driver’s license
Corrections require confirmation and may involve ticket reissue and fees.
When You Can Fix Name Errors for Free
Timing matters:
- Within 24 hours of booking: corrections are usually free, especially if flight departs 7 days later
- Several days before departure: minor corrections often free under most fare types
- Same day or close to travel: airline may charge fee or refuse changes—depend on fare rules
Address name concerns promptly for best outcomes.
How Name Correction Works by Fare Type
- Wanna Get Away fares (lowest price): Limited flexibility. Minor corrections may be allowed early but restricted later.
- Anytime and Business Select fares: More flexibility; minor corrections usually accepted without charge even near travel.
Step-by-Step How to Fix Your Name
- Review your ticket name and compare it with your passport or valid ID
- Log in to Southwest.com and go to Manage Reservations
- Check if a name change option is available
- For minor updates, follow the prompts to correct name
- If not available online, call Southwest Reservations with your confirmation number
- If legal name change, submit required documentation
- Confirm correction and save updated itinerary or boarding pass
Fees and Reissue Charges
- Minor fixes are often free if made early
- Corrections near travel may trigger:
- Fare difference charges or ticket reissue fees
- Especially true for lower fare types
- Legal name changes may involve a small processing fee along with updated documentation
Booking Through a Third Party
If you book via a travel agency or online platform:
- Corrections must go through that same booking channel
- Southwest cannot make changes on tickets they did not issue
- Third parties may charge their own service fees in addition to possible Southwest fees
Airport or Same-Day Fixes
If only noticing the error at the airport:
- Head immediately to the Southwest customer service desk
- Agents may assist if time allows
- Fees may be higher or correction may be denied depending on the timing and boarding window
Examples of Typical Correction Scenarios
- “Alexandr” spelled instead of “Alexander”: Corrected online before check-in; no fee.
- Middle initial missing: Added before boarding online; no fee.
- Name change after marriage: Document submitted and ticket reissued with small processing fee.
- Attempt to use ticket under a friend’s name: Denied and required rebooking under correct individual.
Identity Protection & Security Considerations
- Southwest tickets connect to TSA and Secure Flight databases
- Matching names protects passenger identity and compliance
- Mistakes left uncorrected can block check-in or entry to flights
Tips to Avoid Name Errors
- Book exactly as name appears on ID or passport
- Avoid nicknames or abbreviations
- Review confirmation immediately for typos
- Correct mistakes as soon as possible—best via online portal
- Use official Southwest tools or phone support
- Save confirmation of updated itinerary
Legal Name Change Process
If your legal name changed:
- Submit acceptable proof (marriage certificate, court order) promptly
- Southwest may reissue ticket under the new name
- Processing time usually within 24–72 hours
- Fees or fare adjustments may apply depending on fare type
Elite Status Member Benefits
If you hold Southwest Rapid Rewards elite status:
- Name corrections may be prioritized
- Agent assistance is faster
- Processing or change fees are more lenient—especially for minor corrections
When Name Corrections Might Be Denied
- Too large of a change—implying different person
- Correction beyond allowed corrections for Wanna Get Away fare
- Attempted transfer to unrelated passenger
- Correction requested during boarding process at airport
United vs Southwest Policies
Unlike many airlines, Southwest does not allow changes via third-party tickets. Their policy is simple: name changes are allowed only for the same passenger, and they do not accept ticket transfers.
Review Timeline Chart
| When to Correct | Allowed? | Fee Support? |
|---|---|---|
| Within 24 hours | Yes | Generally none |
| Days before travel | Yes | Usually none |
| Same day / Airport | Maybe | Possible higher fee |
| After departure | No | Too late |
Why Transfers Are Not Allowed
- Tickets tied to Secure Flight identity
- Loyalty points and digital record tracking
- Security and fraud prevention
- Immigration and customs regulations
Final Thoughts
Yes, Southwest Airlines allows minor name corrections for ticketed passengers, especially when done early and via official channels. They do not allow tickets to be transferred to another person. Corrections are easier and possibly free for middle initial changes or minor typos, but Basic fares are more restrictive. Correct spelling before travel, use your legal name exactly, and submit documentation for legal name changes. If booking via a third party, you must use their correction process. Contact Southwest early to ensure a smooth and stress-free flight check-in.
Need help reviewing your ticket name or preparing a correction request? I can assist with your specific case.