# How to Transfer a United Airlines Ticket

Travel plans can be unpredictable. Sometimes you buy a ticket, but later realize that someone else needs to use it. Naturally, questions arise: Can I transfer my United Airlines ticket to another person? What are my options if I can't? How do I correct a mistake on my ticket? This detailed guide answers all your questions about United Airlines ticket transfers, name corrections, cancellations, refunds, and alternatives.

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## Contents

1. Introduction to United Airlines Ticket Transfer Policies
2. Can You Transfer a United Airlines Ticket? Official Policy Explained
3. Understanding the Difference Between Ticket Transfer and Name Correction
4. Why United Airlines and Other Airlines Do Not Allow Ticket Transfers
5. Exceptions and Special Cases: What If You Have a Group Booking or Corporate Ticket?
6. How to Correct Name Errors on United Airlines Tickets
7. The Process to Request Name Corrections on United Tickets
8. Fees and Deadlines for Name Changes and Corrections
9. What Happens If You Try to Fly With a Ticket Under Another Person’s Name?
10. Alternatives to Ticket Transfers: Cancellation, Refunds, and Rebooking
11. Understanding United Airlines Cancellation and Refund Policies
12. How to Use Travel Credits and Vouchers on United Airlines
13. Using MileagePlus Points for Other Travelers
14. Transferring Tickets Bought Through Third-Party Sellers or Travel Agents
15. Legal and Security Reasons Behind Non-Transferable Airline Tickets
16. Real-World Examples and Case Studies
17. Tips for Avoiding Ticket Transfer Problems
18. How to Contact United Airlines Customer Service for Ticket Issues
19. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About United Ticket Transfers
20. Summary and Final Recommendations

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## 1. Introduction to United Airlines Ticket Transfer Policies

Airline tickets are contracts between passengers and carriers. When you purchase a ticket from United Airlines, you enter into an agreement that binds the airline to provide transport for the named passenger on specified flights. Each ticket is issued to a specific individual and contains personal information such as the passenger’s full name as shown on official ID.

United Airlines, like most major airlines, operates under strict security and regulatory standards requiring accurate passenger identification. This system helps maintain safety, reduce fraud, and ensure compliance with government travel and security protocols.

In this guide, we explore United Airlines’ rules regarding ticket transfers, corrections, and alternatives when you cannot travel yourself.

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## 2. Can You Transfer a United Airlines Ticket? Official Policy Explained

**The short answer: United Airlines tickets are generally non-transferable.**

According to United Airlines’ Contract of Carriage — the legal document governing travel on United — a ticket is non-transferable and non-assignable. This means that the name on the ticket cannot be changed to another person once the ticket has been issued.

This policy is consistent with federal regulations and TSA requirements that passenger identification must match the ticket for security screening purposes.

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## 3. Understanding the Difference Between Ticket Transfer and Name Correction

It is important to understand the distinction between:

* **Ticket Transfer:** This means changing the passenger name entirely from one person to another (e.g., from John Smith to Jane Doe). United does **not** allow this.

* **Name Correction:** This refers to fixing minor errors on a ticket, such as a typo or misspelling, or updating a name due to a legal change (e.g., after marriage). United Airlines usually allows these corrections with proper documentation and fees.

Confusing these two can lead to frustration when trying to “transfer” your ticket. It’s vital to recognize that only name corrections are permitted, not transfers.

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## 4. Why United Airlines and Other Airlines Do Not Allow Ticket Transfers

Several key reasons explain why ticket transfers are prohibited:

* **Security and Government Regulations:** The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and other security agencies require airlines to submit accurate passenger manifests. Names on tickets must match government-issued IDs to clear security.

* **Fraud Prevention:** Restricting transfers helps prevent ticket scalping, fraud, and misuse.

* **Revenue Management:** Airlines use complex pricing models. Allowing transfers could undermine these systems and potentially allow arbitrage or unauthorized ticket resale.

* **Passenger Accountability:** Airlines need to know exactly who is on each flight for safety, emergency communication, and regulatory reporting.

This policy is industry standard and applies to most commercial airlines worldwide.

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## 5. Exceptions and Special Cases: What If You Have a Group Booking or Corporate Ticket?

* **Group Bookings:** Group reservations require a list of passenger names ahead of time. Usually, individual names cannot be changed to entirely different people once finalized. Minor spelling corrections may be possible.

* **Corporate Tickets:** Business or corporate travel programs may have specific policies or more flexible ticket management options. However, even in these cases, transferring a ticket to a completely different individual is uncommon.

* **Charter Flights:** Private or charter flights might have more flexibility, but this depends entirely on the provider.

Always check with your booking source or corporate travel manager for details regarding exceptions.

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## 6. How to Correct Name Errors on United Airlines Tickets

If you notice a mistake in the passenger name on your ticket, such as a typo, misspelling, or outdated name, it is essential to request a name correction as soon as possible. Correct names ensure your ticket matches your ID and prevents denied boarding.

Examples of name corrections include:

* Correcting “Jon Smith” to “John Smith”
* Changing “Sara” to “Sarah”
* Updating last names due to marriage or legal change

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## 7. The Process to Request Name Corrections on United Tickets

Follow these steps to correct your ticket name:

1. **Review the Ticket:** Identify the exact error or change needed.

2. **Gather Documentation:** Collect government-issued ID or legal proof of name change (marriage certificate, court order).

3. **Contact United Airlines Customer Service:**

* Call 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-800-864-8331)
* Use the “Manage Reservations” feature on United’s website
* Visit a United ticket counter at the airport if urgent

4. **Explain Your Request:** Specify the name correction and provide documentation if required.

5. **Pay Any Fees:** Name corrections typically incur a fee.

6. **Confirm the Change:** Ensure your updated itinerary is received via email or in your United account.

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## 8. Fees and Deadlines for Name Changes and Corrections

* **Fees:** United Airlines charges a fee for name corrections. Fees vary by fare type and timing but often range between $100-$200.

* **Deadlines:** Name corrections should be requested as early as possible, ideally at least 24-48 hours before departure.

* **Waivers:** Some minor spelling errors might be corrected without fees at United’s discretion.

* **No Changes Close to Departure:** Changes within 24 hours of the flight are often not accepted.

Failing to correct a name before travel can result in denied boarding.

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## 9. What Happens If You Try to Fly With a Ticket Under Another Person’s Name?

Attempting to board a flight using a ticket issued in a different name is risky:

* **TSA and Airport Security:** Your ID will not match the ticket. TSA may refuse to allow you through security.

* **Denied Boarding:** Airlines require ticket and ID to match. You will likely be denied boarding at the gate.

* **Financial Consequences:** You may have to purchase a last-minute ticket at a higher cost.

* **Security Concerns:** Misuse of tickets can lead to reporting to authorities.

It’s highly advised not to attempt traveling on a ticket issued to someone else.

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## 10. Alternatives to Ticket Transfers: Cancellation, Refunds, and Rebooking

Since transferring tickets is not allowed, your alternatives include:

* **Cancellation:** Cancel your ticket if allowed by fare conditions.

* **Refund:** If your ticket is refundable, request a refund.

* **Travel Credits:** Non-refundable tickets often qualify for travel credits to be used on future flights.

* **Rebooking:** Use travel credits to book a ticket for the other person.

* **Using MileagePlus:** Redeem miles to book flights for family or friends.

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## 11. Understanding United Airlines Cancellation and Refund Policies

United offers different fares with different cancellation and refund rules:

* **Refundable Tickets:** Can be canceled for a full refund if canceled before departure.

* **Non-Refundable Tickets:** Cancellation results in a travel credit valid for one year from issuance.

* **Same-Day Changes:** Some tickets allow free same-day flight changes for a fee.

* **Basic Economy:** Usually the most restrictive, non-refundable.

Carefully check your fare conditions at purchase.

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## 12. How to Use Travel Credits and Vouchers on United Airlines

* Travel credits are issued after cancellations of non-refundable tickets.

* These credits can be applied toward booking new flights.

* You can book a flight for a different person using these credits; passenger name on the new ticket can be anyone.

* Credits expire one year after original ticket purchase.

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## 13. Using MileagePlus Points for Other Travelers

United’s frequent flyer program, MileagePlus, allows you to book award tickets for anyone.

* You do not have to be the passenger.

* This is an excellent way to “transfer” value indirectly by redeeming miles for someone else.

* Miles cannot be directly transferred but can be gifted or shared in some cases via United’s MileagePlus X app or partner programs.

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## 14. Transferring Tickets Bought Through Third-Party Sellers or Travel Agents

If your ticket was purchased through a travel agent or third-party site:

* Contact the original seller first for any changes.

* United may require changes to be routed through the point of sale.

* Some third-party sellers have their own policies, fees, or restrictions.

* Always keep confirmation emails and documentation.

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## 15. Legal and Security Reasons Behind Non-Transferable Airline Tickets

* Airlines must comply with federal security regulations.

* Passenger identity is verified to prevent terrorism and criminal activities.

* Accurate passenger manifests are required for emergency and safety protocols.

* Transferable tickets could lead to untraceable passengers, increasing security risks.

* Ticket resale fraud is minimized.

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## 16. Real-World Examples and Case Studies

**Case 1:** Mark books a ticket but misspells his last name as “Smth.” He contacts United, pays the correction fee, and flies without issue.

**Case 2:** Lisa buys a ticket but can’t travel. She cancels, receives a travel credit, and books a ticket for her sister using that credit.

**Case 3:** Tom tries to fly with a ticket issued to his friend, is stopped at TSA, and denied boarding.

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## 17. Tips for Avoiding Ticket Transfer Problems

* Double-check name spelling before finalizing purchase.

* Use your exact name as on government ID.

* Consider refundable fares or travel insurance for flexibility.

* Contact United immediately upon noticing errors.

* Understand your fare conditions.

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## 18. How to Contact United Airlines Customer Service for Ticket Issues

* **Phone:** 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-800-864-8331)

* **Website:** Use the “Manage Reservations” tool or live chat

* **Airport Ticket Counter:** Visit in person for urgent issues

* **Social Media:** United Airlines on Twitter and Facebook

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## 19. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About United Ticket Transfers

**Q: Can I transfer my United ticket to a friend?**
A: No, United does not allow ticket transfers.

**Q: How do I fix a typo on my ticket?**
A: Contact United customer service for a name correction, usually for a fee.

**Q: What if I miss my flight?**
A: Use travel credits or rebook if possible.

**Q: Can travel credits be used by others?**
A: Yes, credits can be applied to bookings for any passenger.

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## 20. Summary and Final Recommendations

* United Airlines tickets are non-transferable by policy.

* Minor name corrections are permitted with fees and proof.

* Use cancellations, refunds, or travel credits as alternatives.

* Frequent flyer miles can be used to book flights for others.

* Always verify passenger names carefully before purchase.

* Contact United promptly if you need changes or assistance.

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If you follow the guidelines in this article, you can avoid many common pitfalls related to ticket transfers and ensure smoother travel experiences with United Airlines.