Changing Guest Names on Reservation
Name changes depend on the reason and timing. Small corrections are easier than complete name changes.
Quick Answer
Spelling correction: Usually allowed
Complete name change: Usually not allowed
Contact us: We'll request from supplier
ID requirement: Name must match at check-in
Types of Name Changes
Spelling Correction
Minor errors:
- Typos
- Wrong spelling
- Middle name missing/added
- Title incorrect
Usually allowed: Contact us with correct spelling
Name Order
Swapped names:
- First/last reversed
- Usually fixable
- Contact us
Complete Name Change
Different person:
- Booking transfer
- Gift to someone
- Usually NOT allowed
- Security reasons
Why Names Matter
Check-In Requirement
Hotels need:
- ID matching booking name
- Credit card matching (often)
- Security verification
- Legal requirements
Fraud Prevention
Strict policies because:
- Prevent booking resale
- Stop unauthorized transfers
- Protect guests
- Industry standard
How to Request
For Spelling Corrections
Contact us with:
- Booking reference
- Current name (as booked)
- Correct spelling
- Reason for change
We'll:
- Request supplier update
- Usually quick approval
- Update confirmation
For Significant Changes
Contact us with:
- Booking details
- Reason for change
- New guest information
- Supporting documentation
We'll:
- Submit request
- Supplier decides
- Often denied
- Alternative: Cancel and rebook
When Changes Are Allowed
Minor Corrections
✅ Spelling errors ✅ Missing middle name ✅ Wrong title (Mr/Ms) ✅ Name order
Sometimes Allowed
🟡 Adding spouse name 🟡 Legal name change (with proof) 🟡 Marriage name change (with certificate)
Rarely Allowed
❌ Different person entirely ❌ Selling/transferring booking ❌ Change without reason ❌ After check-in date
Alternatives
If Name Change Denied
Option 1: Original person checks in
- Person who booked must check in
- Can add other guests
- Show their ID
- Then may leave if needed
Option 2: Cancel and rebook
- If within cancellation period
- Book under correct name
- Pay current price
- Safest option
Option 3: Contact hotel
- Some hotels flexible
- Explain situation
- They may allow
- Their discretion
Special Situations
Booking for Someone Else
If you booked for another person:
- Their name should be on booking
- Book under guest name, not yours
- Too late if already booked under your name
Gift Booking
If booking as gift:
- Book under recipient's name
- Provide their details
- You pay, they stay
- Add note: "Gift booking"
Legal Name Change
Marriage, divorce, legal change:
- Contact us immediately
- Provide legal documentation
- Marriage certificate
- Court order
- Usually allowed
Business Bookings
Company name vs guest name:
- Guest name on booking
- Company name for billing
- Separate invoice
- Correct from start
At Check-In
What Hotel Needs
Required:
- Photo ID
- Name matching booking
- Credit card (may need to match)
If Name Doesn't Match
Hotel may:
- Refuse check-in
- Request proof
- Contact us
- Charge again
Avoid this: Fix name before arrival
Prevention Tips
When Booking
✅ Use guest's full legal name ✅ Check spelling carefully ✅ Match ID/passport exactly ✅ Verify before submitting ✅ Keep confirmation accessible
For Others
✅ Ask for exact name spelling ✅ Confirm title (Mr/Ms/Dr) ✅ Get middle name if needed ✅ Double-check details
FAQ
Q: Can I add my spouse's name? A: Contact us - depends on supplier and room type.
Q: Realized name spelled wrong - what do I do? A: Contact us immediately with correct spelling.
Q: Can I transfer booking to friend? A: Usually no. Need to cancel and they rebook.
Q: Name on booking vs credit card different? A: May cause issues at check-in. Contact hotel first.
Q: Legally changed name since booking? A: Contact us with legal documentation.
Q: Booked under nickname - problem? A: If ID shows different name, yes. Fix before check-in.
How We Can Help
Need name change?
Provide:
- Booking reference
- Current name on booking
- Requested name
- Reason for change
- Supporting documents (if applicable)
We'll:
- Request from supplier
- Explain options
- Update if approved
- Suggest alternatives if denied