How to Change a Name on Your Southwest Airlines Ticket Details From Myflightpolicy

Want To Fly and Need a Name Change?

Planning a trip from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and realized there's a typo or a legal name change needed on your Southwest Airlines ticket? You’re not alone. Errors in names can happen during the booking process, but thankfully, the Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy makes it possible to fix them—within reason.

In this Newark-specific guide, we’ll walk you through how to update your name on a Southwest ticket, any applicable Southwest name change fees, and important considerations for Rapid Rewards members. We'll also compare how other airlines like American Airlines name change and Delta Airlines cancellation policy stack up.

Whether you're managing your own booking or working through a Travel Management Company like Myflightpolicy, this guide gives you everything you need to know, step-by-step.

Understanding the Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy

Southwest Airlines has one of the most flexible policies in the U.S. aviation industry, but that doesn't mean every name change is accepted. Their policy primarily allows for:

Minor spelling corrections

Legal name changes due to marriage or court order

Matches between ticket and government-issued ID

💡 Important: Southwest does not allow full ticket transfers. Only the original passenger can fly.

What Type of Name Changes Are Allowed?

Under Southwest’s rules, here are scenarios where name updates are permitted:

Correcting a Typo: “Jonh” to “John”

Adding or Removing a Middle Name or Initial: To match passport or ID

Legal Name Change: After marriage, divorce, or court order

Gender Change or Identity Update: With proper documentation

For each of these, Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy may require supporting documentation, especially in the case of legal changes.

Steps to Change a Name on Your Southwest Ticket

Whether you're in Newark, NJ or booking remotely, here’s the recommended step-by-step process:

Step 1 – Review Your Booking Details

Login to your Southwest account or go to the confirmation email. Double-check the ticket name against your ID.

Step 2 – Contact Southwest Customer Service

Use one of the following to get in touch:

Call: +1-877-271-4004

Tweet: @SouthwestAir

Visit Website www.southwest.com

If your change is minor, a phone call often resolves it within minutes.

Step 3 – Submit Supporting Documents

For legal name changes, be prepared to submit:

Marriage certificate or divorce decree

Government-issued photo ID

Court-issued name change document

This can be submitted via fax, mail, or at the airport if you're already checked in at Newark.

Step 4 – Confirm the Update

Once your request is processed, Southwest will issue an updated itinerary reflecting the corrected name.

What Is the Southwest Name Change Fee?

Generally, Southwest Airlines does not charge a name change fee for minor corrections or legal updates with valid documentation. That’s part of what sets it apart from other carriers.

However, if you’re booking via third parties or travel agents (or using a Travel Management Company like Myflightpolicy), they may apply administrative fees.

From Newark? Visit the Southwest help desk at Terminal A for in-person support without extra fees.

Name Changes and Rapid Rewards Rules and Regulations

If you're a Rapid Rewards member, name consistency is crucial for:

Earning points

Redeeming awards

TSA identity checks

Key Rapid Rewards Considerations:

Name on your account must match government ID

Once a name is updated, it may take up to 7 days to reflect

Points are not transferable between differently named accounts

If you’re changing your name legally, be sure to update both your ticket and Rapid Rewards account to keep your points intact.

Newark-Specific Advice: In-Person vs Online Corrections

If you’re based in Newark, NJ—or flying out of EWR—you have options:

Online/Phone Support: Fast and often enough for typo corrections

In-person at EWR Terminal A: Ideal for last-minute issues or if documentation is needed quickly

Travelers from Newark often appreciate the hands-on help at the Southwest desk, especially for legal or complex changes.

How Southwest Compares to Other Airlines on Name Changes

Delta Airlines Cancellation Policy

While not directly a name change policy, Delta’s cancellation and rebooking process can sometimes be used if you make a mistake in the name.

Delta allows cancellations within 24 hours of booking for a full refund.

Name corrections are case-by-case and often involve a fee.

Jetblue Airlines Name Change Policy

Jetblue Airlines typically charges a fee and limits changes to minor corrections only. Full passenger swaps are never allowed.

(FAQs) About Southwest Airlines Name Change Policy

Q1: Can I change my name at the airport in Newark?

Yes, Southwest’s help desk at EWR can assist with name corrections, especially if you're traveling the same day.

Q2: How long does it take for a name change to reflect?

Usually within 24–48 hours after documentation is received and approved.

Q3: Will I lose my flight if my name doesn't match my ID?

Yes, the TSA may deny boarding. Always ensure your name matches the ID used during check-in.

Q4: Can a Travel Management Company like Myflightpolicy help?

Absolutely. They often handle name corrections and manage the communication with the airline on your behalf.

Don’t Let a Name Error Ground Your Flight

Mistakes happen, but with Southwest Airlines’ flexible name change policy, Newark travelers have options. Whether you’re managing your trip yourself or through a Travel Management Company like Myflightpolicy, be sure to act quickly and follow the correct steps.

Ensure your name matches your ID, especially if you’re a Rapid Rewards member. And remember—Southwest Airlines doesn't typically charge name change fees, making it one of the most traveler-friendly airlines in the U.S.

Ready to Fly Stress-Free ?

Don’t let a typo hold up your journey. Reach out to Southwest today or contact your travel manager at Myflightpolicy to ensure your booking is in perfect shape.