How to Change a United Airlines Flight — No-Fee Guide 2026

United Airlines eliminated most change fees in 2020, making it one of the most flexible carriers for rebooking. But the rules differ by fare type, route, and how you booked. This guide explains exactly how United's flight change policy works in 2026 — and how to get your flight changed in minutes by calling (833) 754-8013.

United Airlines Change Fee Policy 2026 — At a Glance

Fare Type	Change Fee	Fare Difference
Basic Economy	Not allowed	N/A
Economy (non-refundable)	$0 fee	Pay if new flight costs more
Economy (refundable)	$0 fee	Pay if more / refund if less
Business / First Class	$0 fee	Pay if more / refund if less
Same-Day Change	$75 (waived for Premier)	No fare difference

How to Change Your United Flight by Phone

The easiest and fastest way to change a United flight is to call a travel specialist. Have your:

6-character United confirmation number (or MileagePlus number)
Passenger names exactly as booked
New desired travel date and route
Payment card ready (for any fare difference)

Call (833) 754-8013 — our agents rebook directly in United's reservation system. Most changes are confirmed in under 5 minutes.

Domestic vs. International Change Rules

United's no-change-fee policy applies to:

All domestic US flights (Economy and above)
All international flights originating from the US (Economy and above)
All MileagePlus award flights

The rule does NOT apply to Basic Economy tickets or tickets purchased through certain third-party sites. When in doubt, call before assuming you're covered.

Same-Day Flight Changes on United

United offers two same-day options:

Same-Day Confirmed — Switch to a confirmed seat on an earlier or later flight (same day, same route) for $75. Free for Premier Silver and above.
Same-Day Standby — Get on the standby list for an earlier flight at no charge. If a seat opens, you're confirmed. If not, you fly as originally booked.

Call (833) 754-8013 as early as possible on the day of travel to access same-day options — availability fills quickly on popular routes.

What Happens If United Changed Your Flight?

If United makes a schedule change of 30 minutes or more to your itinerary, you have the right to:

Rebook onto any United flight within 30 days at no charge
Request a full cash refund — even on non-refundable tickets
Get rerouted via a United partner airline if United flights don't work

Frequently Asked Questions

Does United Airlines charge a change fee?

United Airlines eliminated change fees in 2020 for most non-Basic Economy fares on domestic and many international routes. You may still owe the fare difference if your new flight costs more.

Can I change a United Basic Economy ticket?

No. United Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed after purchase (except within the 24-hour cancellation window). If you need flexibility, always book at minimum Economy or above.

How do I change a United flight same-day?

United offers same-day confirmed changes and same-day standby options, sometimes for a $75 fee (waived for Premier status members). Call (833) 754-8013 early on the day of travel to secure a spot on an earlier or later flight.

What if United changes my flight schedule?

If United makes a significant schedule change (typically 30+ minutes), you can rebook without fee onto any flight within 30 days, or request a full refund even on non-refundable tickets.

Can I change a United award ticket?

Yes. MileagePlus award tickets can be changed or cancelled. Changes are free for most MileagePlus members. Redepositing miles may carry a fee depending on your status.

Speak With a Flight Specialist Now

Need help booking? Our specialists are available 24/7 — no hold time.

Call (833) 754-8013 — Toll-Free

✔ No hold time · ✔ Instant booking · ✔ Toll-free USA · ✔ 24/7 Open All Week

Disclaimer: ProBookFlightsHub is an independent third-party travel service provider. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air Canada, or Qatar Airways. All flight policies described in this article are subject to change by the respective airline. Always confirm current policies directly. For assistance, call (833) 754-8013.