Can I cancel a flight with United and get my money back?
Canceling a flight can be stressful, but United Airlines has policies in place to make the process as smooth as possible 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Whether you can get your money back depends on the type of ticket, fare rules, and timing of your cancellation 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Below, we outline United’s cancellation policies, refund eligibility, and steps to cancel your flight. For assistance, you can reach United Airlines customer service at 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
United’s Cancellation Policy Overview
United Airlines offers flexibility for cancellations 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), but refund eligibility varies based on several factors, including whether your ticket is refundable, the fare type, and how you booked the flight 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
24-Hour Flexible Booking Policy: United allows you to cancel or change any flight booked directly through their website 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), app, or call center within 24 hours of booking without a fee, provided the booking was made at least seven days before departure 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). You’ll receive a full refund to your original payment method1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Non-Refundable Tickets: Most economy and some premium tickets are non-refundable 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), meaning you may not get your money back but could receive a travel credit for future use, minus any applicable fees1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Refundable Tickets: If you purchased a refundable ticket (often more expensive), you can cancel and receive a full refund to your original payment method 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), regardless of the timing, as long as the ticket hasn’t been used1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Basic Economy Restrictions: Basic Economy tickets are typically non-refundable and non-changeable, except within the 24-hour window 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). After that, cancellations usually result in no refund or credit1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
For specific questions about your ticket, contact United at 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Refund Eligibility Scenarios
Your ability to get a refund depends on the circumstances of your cancellation. Here are common scenarios 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US):
Cancellations Within 24 Hours: If you cancel within 24 hours of booking (and the booking was made at least seven days before departure) 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), you’re entitled to a full refund, even for non-refundable tickets. The refund will be processed to your original payment method1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Refundable Tickets: If you purchased a refundable fare (e.g., Economy Flex, Premium Economy, or Business Class) 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), you can cancel at any time before departure and receive a full refund. Check your ticket’s fare rules to confirm1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Flight Canceled by United: If United cancels your flight or significantly changes your schedule (e.g., a delay of several hours) 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), you’re eligible for a full refund, even for non-refundable tickets. You can choose between a refund or rebooking on another flight1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Medical or Bereavement Exceptions: In cases of serious illness, injury, or death of a traveler or immediate family member 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), United may offer refunds or waive fees for non-refundable tickets. Documentation (e.g., a doctor’s note) may be required. Contact United at 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US) for assistance.
Travel Waivers: During events like severe weather or global disruptions, United may issue travel waivers allowing cancellations or changes without fees 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Check United’s website or call 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US) to see if a waiver applies.
How to Cancel a United Flight
To cancel your flight and request a refund, follow these steps 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US):
Log Into Your Account: Visit United’s website and go to “My Trips.” Enter your confirmation number and last name to access your booking1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Select Cancel: Choose the flight you wish to cancel 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). If eligible, you’ll see options for a refund or travel credit. For cancellations within 24 hours, select the full refund option1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Submit Refund Request: For refundable tickets or special circumstances, you may need to complete a refund request form on United’s website 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Provide any required documentation for exceptions like medical emergencies1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Contact Customer Service: If you booked through a travel agency or need assistance, call United at 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Note that third-party bookings may require you to contact the agency directly.
Check Refund Status: Refunds typically process within 7–10 business days for credit card payments or 20 business days for other methods 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). You can track your refund status online or by calling 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Fees and Travel Credits
If your ticket is non-refundable and outside the 24-hour window, you may face a cancellation fee (typically $99–$200, depending on the fare and route) 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Instead of a refund, United may issue a travel credit valid for one year from the original ticket purchase date 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Basic Economy tickets usually cannot be changed or canceled after 24 hours, so confirm your fare rules before booking. For clarification, reach out to United at 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Tips for Maximizing Your Refund Chances
Book Refundable Fares: If flexibility is important, opt for a refundable ticket or a higher fare class like Economy Flex1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Cancel Early: Cancel as soon as you know you can’t travel to stay within the 24-hour window or avoid additional fees1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Check Travel Insurance: If you purchased travel insurance 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US), it may cover cancellations for reasons like illness or emergencies. Contact your insurance provider for details1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Monitor Flight Changes: If United changes your flight schedule significantly, you may be eligible for a refund 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Check your email or United’s app for updates1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Keep Documentation: For medical or bereavement refunds, have documents ready to support your request1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).
Final Notes
United Airlines’ cancellation and refund policies offer flexibility, especially within the 24-hour booking window or for refundable tickets 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). Always check your ticket’s fare rules and United’s website for the latest information 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US). If you need help, United’s customer service team is available at 1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US) to guide you through the process. Plan ahead, know your options, and enjoy peace of mind when booking your next flight with United1::855::550::0903 (US) or +1//855//550//0903 (US).