When booking a flight, hotel, or vacation package, accuracy in personal details is essential — especially the traveler’s name. Mistakes, even minor ones, can lead to costly changes or denied boarding. For travelers who book through one of the world’s largest online travel agencies, Expedia, understanding the Expedia Name Change Correction Policy is crucial.
This article provides a detailed overview of Expedia’s policy, including how to correct a name, associated fees, eligibility, and useful tips to avoid common pitfalls.
What Is the Expedia Name Change Correction Policy?
Expedia acts as an intermediary between the traveler and service providers like airlines or hotels. Because of this, its name change correction policy can vary depending on the rules of the actual provider (e.g., Delta Airlines, United Airlines, etc.).
Generally, Expedia allows minor name corrections, but complete name changes (such as transferring a booking to another person) are typically not permitted.
Minor Corrections Allowed:
Misspellings (e.g., “Jonh” to “John”)
Missing or extra letters
Typing errors (like a lowercase letter instead of uppercase)
Minor formatting errors
Major Changes Not Allowed:
Changing the entire first or last name
Switching the traveler to another person
Name changes due to marriage or legal reasons (in most cases)
Each request is subject to airline policies and approval, and Expedia does not guarantee the correction will be accepted.
How to Request a Name Correction on Expedia
Here’s a step-by-step process to initiate a name correction under the Expedia Name Change Correction Policy:
Login to Your Expedia Account
Go to sign in to your account, and navigate to “My Trips.”Select Your Booking
Click on the reservation that requires the correction. Review the itinerary details and ensure the name error is clearly visible.
Click on “Help” or “Manage Booking”
Look for the option to “Change” or “Correct Name” if available. In most cases, you’ll need to contact Expedia Customer Support.
Contact Expedia Customer Support
You can reach their support through:
Phone
Live chat
Email support
Provide accurate documentation such as:
Passport or government-issued ID
Booking reference number
The correct spelling of the name
Wait for Confirmation
Expedia will contact the service provider (airline/hotel) to process your request. This may take 24–72 hours or longer.
Name Correction Fees and Charges
While Expedia doesn’t always charge a fee for name corrections, airlines may impose a correction or re-issuance fee. These fees can vary:
Minor corrections: $0–$50
Airline reissue fee: $50–$200 (depending on the carrier)
Fare difference: Sometimes applicable if the ticket is reissued
Expedia will inform you of any applicable costs before proceeding with the correction.
Airline-Specific Name Correction Scenarios via Expedia
Because Expedia sells flights for many airlines, correction policies differ. Here are a few examples:
Delta Air Lines: Allows minor corrections (up to 3 characters); must be handled by the agency (Expedia).
American Airlines: Name corrections allowed for misspellings only; legal name changes require documentation.
United Airlines: Name corrections allowed; fees and documentation may apply.
Spirit and Frontier: Strict correction rules; often require a reissue fee.
Expedia acts on the airline’s behalf and must follow their name correction policy, even if Expedia itself permits changes.
Name Corrections for Hotel and Car Rentals
Unlike flights, hotel and rental car bookings made through Expedia are more flexible with name corrections.
Hotels: You can often correct or change the name by contacting the hotel directly or through Expedia support.
Car Rentals: The driver’s name must match the license and credit card. Minor corrections may be accepted but full name changes usually aren’t allowed.
Always confirm with the supplier through Expedia to avoid check-in issues.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are a few exceptions where Expedia or the service provider may allow a name change:
1. Legal Name Change
If you’ve changed your name legally (e.g., due to marriage or divorce), you must provide:
Legal name change document
Government-issued ID
Marriage/divorce certificate
Not all airlines or hotels accept this after booking, so it’s best to contact Expedia immediately.
2. Duplicate Bookings or Errors by Expedia
If the name error was caused by a technical issue or Expedia’s mistake, they will typically work with the airline or hotel to fix it at no cost to you.
Tips to Avoid Name Issues When Booking via Expedia
Avoid problems by following these tips:
- Double-check spelling before confirming any booking.
- Use your full legal name as it appears on your ID or passport.
- Avoid using nicknames or initials unless required by the booking platform.
- If you’re booking for someone else, verify their details before proceeding.
- Save a copy of your confirmation and ID proof in case corrections are needed.
What to Do If Name Change Is Denied
If the airline or provider refuses to correct the name:
- Cancel the Booking (if allowed): You may be able to cancel for a partial refund.
- Re-book the Ticket: You might have to create a new reservation with the correct name.
- Use Travel Insurance: Some policies cover cancellation due to name issues, though this varies.
Final Thoughts on Expedia Name Change Correction Policy
The Expedia Name Change Correction Policy is designed to allow minor, legitimate corrections — but it has limits. Because Expedia works with third-party service providers, the final decision often rests with the airline or hotel. While minor mistakes can often be fixed quickly, major name changes may require cancellation and re-booking.
Travelers are advised to review personal details thoroughly during booking, and if errors are found, act fast. Prompt communication with Expedia’s support team can often resolve simple issues before they escalate.
