Companions receive sequential boarding so you will get boarding positions next to or very close to each other. Since that is the case, only one of you needs to purchase EBCI, the 2nd person will automatically get the benefit. You do both need to check-in, but there's no rush as EBCI will be applied.

Yes, your companion must check in for their own flight on Southwest Airlines, just like any other passenger. While the Companion Pass allows a designated person to fly with you for just the cost of taxes and fees, they are issued a separate confirmation number and their own boarding pass. In 2026, Southwest’s boarding process is still based on the time of check-in; therefore, if you want to board together, both you and your companion should check in exactly 24 hours prior to departure. If you have "EarlyBird Check-In" or "A-List" status, your companion does not automatically inherit your boarding position unless they also have those benefits or if you are traveling on a fare that includes them. For flights departing after late January 2026, Southwest has also introduced new seating benefits for Companion Pass holders that may assign boarding groups based on seat location, making it even more important for both parties to ensure their digital check-in is completed on time via the Southwest app.