So, I got married a year and a half ago and finally finished the legal name process a month ago. Now the real challenge begins – changing my legal name across the dozens of frequent flyer accounts, hotel rewards programs, and other places where my maiden name exists.
Today, we’re talking airline programs. These are top priority for me to change because we’re trying to book some upcoming vacations and I won’t be able to fly if the name on my ID is different from what’s on our tickets. I could book in the new name, but that (a) will cause issues with my Companion Pass redemption on Southwest and (b) could lead to a temporary delay syncing the points from my upcoming travel with my accounts. Thankfully, all of the airlines ask for roughly the same documents and make submission pretty easy – although the 2 week processing time most cite is a little annoying!
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Collect the documents you’ll need before you start the process. These typically include a certified copy of your court order legally changing your name or marriage license, as well as a copy of your government ID with the name you want to use going forward. Most programs will also accept a copy of both your old ID and new ID as an alternative to court documents or the marriage license. You can use an app like TinyScanner to scan them to PDF and save them to your computer so you can quickly email them out. Save in medium resolution so the file is less than 1MB, the file size limit listed in some submission requirements.
Many programs require you fax them your information. I used a free online fax program like Faxzero.com – because who keeps a fax machine around these days?
HOW TO CHANGE YOUR NAME, BY MAJOR PROGRAM
American Airlines AAdvantage Program
Call into the AAdvantage Program customer service line (1-800-882-8880) and request to speak to a representative. Avoid saying “name change” into the automated prompts as this will send you to reservations to change the name on a ticket. The representative will send you an email with instructions on the information they need, which you can email back. In 7-10 business days, you’ll receive confirmation of the change.
Delta SkyMiles
Delta only approves name changes submitted via mail or by faxing the necessary documentation to 404-773-1945. Your submission must include your current name, SkyMiles number, signature, name you need it changed to, and a copy of your court order or marriage license.
JetBlue TrueBlue
The process for changing your legal name on your JetBlue TrueBlue account is a little hazy. They suggested via social media that I call their customer service line at 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583).
Southwest Rapid Rewards
Send an email to SWACSS@wnco.com containing:
- Your contact information (name, address, telephone number, and email address if available)
- Rapid Rewards account number
- A copy of your legal documents, per above (court order, marriage license, etc.)
You can also submit your documents by mail, if you would prefer. The address to send to is in the FAQs on Southwest’s website. I submitted via email and my name change was completed within 24 hours. Thanks Southwest!
United Airlines MileagePlus
United allows you to change your MileagePlus name online and submit your legal documents for approval. The approval process takes around 2 weeks. Alternately, you can send in your request and copies of your documents by mail.
Now kick back, relax, and enjoy the reward travel!
