Can I Transfer My United Ticket to Another Person?

# Can I Transfer My United Ticket to Another Person? Can I Transfer My United Ticket to **+1-844-570-3589** Another Person learn rules name changes alternatives credits and best options when travel plans suddenly change. Many travelers ask whether they can transfer a United Airlines ticket to another person if their plans change. Situations such as emergencies, schedule conflicts, or name mistakes can make passengers wonder if someone else can use their ticket instead. Understanding United Airlines policies is important before making assumptions, as airline ticket rules are often strict. This article explains whether United tickets are transferable, why restrictions exist, what alternatives are available, and how to handle common situations calmly and effectively. ### Understanding Airline Ticket Ownership When you purchase an airline ticket, it is issued in the name of a specific passenger. The name on the ticket must match the government issued identification shown at the airport. This rule exists for safety, security, and regulatory reasons. United Airlines tickets are generally non transferable. This means the ticket cannot be reassigned to another person once it has been issued. Even if the new traveler is a family member or close friend, the airline does not allow a complete name change that would result in a different passenger flying. Why United Airlines Does Not Allow Ticket Transfers United Airlines follows industry wide security and fraud prevention practices. Allowing ticket transfers could lead to misuse, resale of tickets, and security concerns. Airlines also price tickets based on demand and timing. If transfers were allowed freely, people could resell tickets at different prices, which would disrupt fare structures and availability. Because of these reasons, United Airlines treats tickets as non transferable documents tied to one individual. Minor Name Corrections Versus Ticket Transfers It is important to understand the difference between a name correction and a ticket transfer. A name correction involves fixing small errors such as Spelling mistakes Missing middle names Reversed first and last names A ticket transfer means changing the passenger entirely, which United Airlines does not allow. If your ticket has a small typing error, United may allow a correction. If you want someone else to travel instead of you, that is considered a transfer and is not permitted. ### What Happens If You Cannot Travel If you can no longer take your flight, United Airlines offers alternatives depending on your ticket type. You may be able to Cancel the ticket and receive a travel credit Change the flight date for future travel Rebook under your own name The unused ticket value usually remains with the original passenger and cannot be assigned to another person. United Travel Credits and Future Flight Value If you cancel an eligible United ticket, the value may be issued as a future flight credit. This credit is issued in the original passenger name and must be used by the same person. Future flight credits typically have an expiration date. They can only be applied to flights booked for the same traveler, not transferred to someone else. Understanding this rule helps prevent disappointment when trying to give the credit to another person. Tickets Purchased With Miles United award tickets booked with miles are also non transferable. The passenger name cannot be changed to another person. However, miles themselves can be used to book tickets for others at the time of booking. Once the ticket is issued, the traveler cannot be changed. If your plans change, you may be able to cancel the award ticket and redeposit the miles into your account depending on fare rules. ### Basic Economy Ticket Restrictions Basic Economy tickets come with additional limitations. These tickets usually do not allow changes, refunds, or flexibility. If you purchased a Basic Economy ticket and cannot travel, transferring the ticket to another person is not an option. In many cases, the ticket may lose its value entirely if not used. ### This is why travelers should carefully consider fare rules before booking. Special Circumstances and Exceptions United Airlines rarely makes exceptions for ticket transfers. However, in very specific situations such as death of the passenger or severe medical emergencies, the airline may review the case individually. Documentation may be required, and approval is not guaranteed. These cases are handled on a case by case basis and should be discussed directly with United customer support. How to Avoid This Problem in the Future To avoid the issue of non transferable tickets, consider these tips when booking flights. Double check your travel plans before purchasing Choose flexible fares when possible Use refundable tickets if unsure Book award tickets carefully ### Planning ahead reduces the risk of losing ticket value or facing restrictions. Changing Flights Instead of Transferring While you cannot transfer a United ticket to another person, you can often change your flight dates or times. Many United fares allow changes without a change fee, although fare differences may apply. This option allows you to travel later rather than losing the ticket value. Changing your itinerary is often the most practical solution if your plans shift. Booking Tickets for Someone Else the Right Way If you want to buy a ticket for another person, make sure to enter their name correctly during booking. United Airlines allows you to purchase tickets for others as long as the passenger details are accurate from the start. ### Once the ticket is issued, the passenger name becomes locked. Comparing Transfer Policies Across Airlines Latam Airlines Ticket Transfer Policy Overview Latam Airlines also generally does not allow full ticket transfers to another person. Like United, it permits only minor name corrections and treats tickets as non transferable documents tied to the original passenger identity. This shows that United Airlines follows a common airline industry practice rather than a unique restriction. What to Do If You Made a Name Mistake If you entered the wrong name during booking but the traveler is still the same person, contact United Airlines as soon as possible. Provide your booking reference Explain the error clearly Request a name correction ### Early requests are more likely to be approved without complications. Airport Level Changes Are Risky Attempting to change passenger details at the airport is risky. Airport staff have limited authority and strict timelines. If you arrive at the airport hoping to transfer your ticket to someone else, it is very unlikely to be approved. Always handle ticket issues before the travel date. Understanding Fare Rules Before Booking Each United ticket comes with specific fare rules. These rules explain whether changes or cancellations are allowed. Before booking, review Change policies Cancellation options Credit eligibility ### Understanding fare rules helps you make informed decisions. Common Misunderstandings About Ticket Transfers Some travelers believe tickets can be transferred if The ticket was not used The new traveler is a family member The ticket was expensive None of these situations allow transfers under United policy. The name on the ticket must remain the same. Best Alternatives to Ticket Transfer If you cannot travel and want to minimize loss, consider Canceling and using travel credit later Changing dates to a future trip Upgrading flexibility when booking These options offer more value than letting a ticket go unused. ### Conclusion United Airlines tickets are not transferable to another person once issued. The airline allows only minor name corrections, not full passenger changes. This policy exists to protect security, prevent misuse, and maintain fare integrity. If you cannot travel, your best options are canceling the ticket for future credit, changing your flight dates, or rebooking according to fare rules. Understanding these policies before booking helps avoid frustration and financial loss. By planning carefully and choosing the right fare type, travelers can enjoy flexibility while staying within United Airlines guidelines.