When purchasing tickets on Ticketmaster, the name listed for the ticket holder does matter in most cases. Ticketmaster requires the name on the ticket to match the ID presented when entering the event venue. This is done to prevent scalping and ensure ticket authenticity. However, there are some exceptions where the name may not need to match exactly.
Why Ticketmaster Requires Matching Names
Ticketmaster requires matching names between the ticket and ID primarily as an anti-scalping measure. Scalping refers to the unauthorized resale of tickets, often at inflated prices. To deter this:
- Ticketmaster limits how many tickets each customer can buy for hot shows.
- It requires customers to present ID matching the ticket name upon entry.
This makes it much harder for scalpers to scoop up large batches of tickets and resell them. It also ensures whoever shows up with the ticket is the intended ticket holder. Both facets help preserve fairness and access for fans.
Deterring Fake Tickets
Requiring accurate names also deters counterfeit or “fake” tickets. If names did not need to match, it would be easier for scammers to create fake ticket duplicates and sell them. The name matching requirement makes this kind of scam less likely to succeed.
Tracking Ticket Transfers
Additionally, matching names allows Ticketmaster to track ticket transfers properly. Most tickets can be transferred to a new name through Ticketmaster for a fee. This process updates the name associated with that ticket. At entry, the new name must then match the ID.
Exceptions Where Name Accuracy Is Less Strict
While name accuracy is generally mandatory, there are some cases where exceptions occur or flexibility is allowed:
Young Children
Very young children may not have official IDs. In these cases, a birth certificate or other proof of identity may suffice if a name mismatch arises.
Nicknames on IDs
If your ticket is under a formal name like “Benjamin” but your ID shows a nickname like “Ben”, you will typically still be okay. Some variation is often acceptable.
Minor Spelling Differences
Small spelling differences like a missing hyphen are not usually an issue. But significant name inaccuracies will likely cause problems.
Group Tickets
For some group tickets, individual names may not be issued. The group leader would receive the tickets without assigned names. In these scenarios, name accuracy matters less.
Will Call Tickets
Will call tickets held at the venue box office also may not have individual names on each ticket. A valid ID and confirmation number is all that is needed for pickup in these situations.
Steps to Fix Name Issues on Ticketmaster Tickets
If you receive a Ticketmaster ticket under an incorrect name, follow these steps to fix it:
- Contact Ticketmaster immediately if you notice a name error on newly purchased tickets.
- For already purchased tickets, initiate a transfer to the correct name through your Ticketmaster account.
- As a last resort, contact the event venue for assistance fixing name issues at will call pickup.
Ideally, identify and correct any name inaccuracies proactively with Ticketmaster as soon as possible. Last minute name corrections at the venue will likely carry additional hassles and fees.
Special Cases Where Name Accuracy Is Waived
In limited special cases, venues and Ticketmaster may waive the name match policy:
Sold Out Performances
If an event is sold out, there is incentive for the venue to grant leeway on names to avoid empty seats. But name issues could still result in denied entry, so fixes should be attempted.
Low Demand Events
Similarly, if an event has sluggish ticket sales, name accuracy rules may be relaxed to fill more seats. But this is unpredictable and not guaranteed.
Technical Errors
In rare cases where a clear technical error causes a name mismatch, venues may make an exception and allow entry. Having documentation of the error will help.
But in general, the venue is not obligated to make exceptions for name inaccuracies. Advanced planning is needed to prevent problems.
How to Avoid Name Issues When Ordering Tickets
To prevent headaches, carefully verify name accuracy when purchasing tickets on Ticketmaster:
- Triple check the billing name matches the name being issued tickets.
- Correct any auto-fill errors where incorrect billing info is applied.
- If purchasing for others, verify their precise legal names.
- Take care when selecting title prefixes like Mr./Ms./Dr. that don’t appear on IDs.
Catching name issues early is the best policy. Also, understand name policies when buying tickets second-hand. The new ticket holder will likely need to complete a name transfer through Ticketmaster.
The Importance of Name Accuracy
While name policies may seem strict, they are important for fairness and preventing fraud. Matching names is one key way Ticketmaster provides order and equitable access for high-demand events. Carefully verifying name accuracy helps avoid problems for yourself and event organizers.
In summary, name matters a lot when purchasing Ticketmaster tickets. Always double check accuracy during ticket purchases and promptly correct any errors. This saves you headaches and ensures smooth entry at the venue.
Conclusion
Ticketmaster’s name matching policy exists primarily to deter scalping and fake ticket creation. Requiring an ID that matches the ticket name makes it much harder for scammers to take advantage. There are some exceptions when names may not need to precisely match, such as for young children or minor spelling differences. But in general, take measures to ensure name accuracy when ordering tickets. This prevents denied entry and extra hassles at the event. With careful attention to detail, you can avoid name mix-ups and have peace of mind that your Ticketmaster tickets will work as intended.