United Airlines Name Change Due To Marriage

You’ve just had the wedding of your dreams, and you’re all set for your honeymoon. But as you check your flight details, you realize your ticket still shows your maiden name. 

Panic sets in, and now you’re wondering, “How do I fix this without missing my flight?” If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many newlyweds need to update their travel details after a name change. 

United Airlines understands this and has policies to help you make these changes smoothly. Whether it’s a simple name correction or a significant change like a United Airlines name change marriage, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know and ensure your travel plans aren’t interrupted.

United Airlines Name Change Policy: The Basics

United Airlines offers options for passengers who need to change their name on a ticket. You need to know whether it’s a simple correction or a significant change due to marriage.

Simple Name Corrections: These are minor fixes like correcting the spelling of your first or last name, swapping inverted names, or fixing a title like “Mr.” to “Ms.” Simple corrections don’t usually need any documents, and you can often make these changes by calling United’s customer service or visiting a ticketing office.

Significant Name Changes: This category covers legal changes due to marriage, divorce, or court orders. For these changes, you’ll need to provide proof, like a marriage certificate. Significant changes usually need to be done at a United ticketing office, and a fee might be involved, especially if your ticket requires reissuing.

How to Change Your Name on United Airlines Ticket After Marriage

United Airlines name change due to marriage involves a few steps, but with the right preparation, it’s straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Gather Your Documents: The first step is to collect the necessary paperwork. For name changes due to marriage, you’ll need your marriage certificate. This document will serve as proof that your new name is legally recognized.
2. Visit a United Ticketing Office: A United Airlines ticketing office must process significant name changes. You cannot complete these changes online unless you’re a MileagePlus member who can upload the required documents directly to your profile.
3. Present Your Legal Documentation: Show your marriage certificate and a government-issued ID showing your previous and new names. This step is essential to verifying your name change.
4. Be Aware of Potential Fees: United Airlines may charge a fee or require you to pay the fare difference between your original ticket and a reissued one. It’s best to ask about this when processing your name change.
5. Timing Matters: Don’t wait until the last minute. Address your name change as soon as you realize it’s needed. This proactive approach will help you avoid any last-minute stress or denial of boarding at the airport.

United Airlines Name Change Options for MileagePlus Members

MileagePlus members have a bit more flexibility when it comes to United Airlines name changes due to marriage. Here’s how it works:

• Online Simple Corrections: If you’re a MileagePlus member, you can make simple changes, like fixing typos or swapping your first and last names, directly in your online account. These don’t require additional documentation, making the process quick and easy.
• Uploading Legal Documents for Significant Changes: For significant changes, like after marriage, MileagePlus members can upload their marriage certificate or other legal documents directly to their profile. This eliminates the need to visit a ticketing office.
• Using a Name Affidavit: If you don’t have all the required documents, United Airlines allows you to submit a notarized Name Affidavit along with your ID that reflects both your former and current names. This affidavit serves as proof of your name change when other documentation isn’t available.

United Airlines Name Change Fees: What to Expect

While simple corrections are typically free, significant name changes might involve some costs. Here’s a quick overview of when fees apply:

Type of Name Change	Fee
Simple Corrections (typos)	Typically free
Name Changes Due to Marriage	Fare difference may apply
Reissue of Ticket	Applicable fare difference
Document Submission	No fee if done properly
Last-Minute Corrections	Possible extra charges

Tips to Avoid Name Change Problems

Avoiding name change issues is easy with these simple tips:

• Double-Check Your Booking: Always make sure the name on your ticket matches your ID at the time of booking. This small step can save you a lot of trouble later.
• Use the 24-Hour Rule: United Airlines offers a 24-hour grace period to make corrections without any fees. If you spot a mistake, fix it immediately.
• Keep Your Documents Handy: Always have your marriage certificate and ID ready when you request a name change. This makes the process smoother and faster.
• Notify United Early: The sooner you alert United Airlines to a name change, the better. Early notification helps you avoid last-minute chaos and potential fees.
• Update Your MileagePlus Profile: Frequent flyers should keep their profile information up to date. This way, your correct name will automatically populate when booking future tickets.

Did You Know?

• United Airlines Offers a Name Affidavit Option: If you can’t provide your marriage certificate, United accepts a notarized name affidavit along with your ID. This flexibility helps many passengers resolve their name issues quickly.
• You Have 24 Hours to Make Free Changes: United Airlines allows you to fix any mistakes within 24 hours of booking without incurring fees. This is a great opportunity to correct errors immediately.
• MileagePlus Members Can Make Changes Online: Simple name corrections can be done online through the account. It’s a hassle-free way to keep your ticket details updated.

Final Thoughts 

Navigating a United Airlines name change due to marriage doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By understanding the airline’s policies, gathering the right documents, and acting early, you can ensure your name change goes smoothly. Keeping your travel details updated is essential for a hassle-free trip. 

United Airlines name change marriage is straightforward if you follow these steps—so don’t let an outdated ticket keep you from your journey. For more detailed guidance, reach out to United Airlines directly, and they’ll assist you with your name change needs. Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions