Misspelled Your Name on a Ticket? Here's What to Do

A single wrong letter on a ticket can deny boarding. But almost every airline allows minor corrections — the trick is knowing the window and the right form.

The 24-hour rule: in the US, DOT allows free cancellation within 24 hours of booking for flights departing 7+ days out. That's also the easiest window for a free correction — just rebook with the right name.

Beyond 24 hours: most airlines allow corrections of up to 3 letters for typos, or full name updates for legal changes (marriage, divorce). Fees range from $0 to $200.

What never works: replacing one passenger with another person. That's a name change, not a correction, and major airlines do not allow it (ticket would have to be cancelled and rebooked).

Move fast. After check-in opens, the system locks. Always call before the 24-hour pre-flight window.