United Airlines·Star Alliance
United Cancellation & Refund Policy
United Cancellation & Refund Policy — Summary
United refund rules: refundable vs non-refundable fares, travel credit validity, and when US DOT rules entitle you to cash back instead of a voucher.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- Refundable fares: Refundable fares refund to the original form of payment without penalty.
- Non-refundable fares: Non-refundable tickets cancelled before departure convert to a future flight credit for the amount paid..
- How long credits last: United future flight credits are generally valid for 12 months from the original ticket issue date.
- Your rights when the airline cancels: If United cancels or significantly changes your flight and you decline the alternative, DOT rules entitle you to an automatic cash refund rather than a credit.
Refundable fares
Refundable fares refund to the original form of payment without penalty. Request through united.com rather than by phone — it is faster and creates a record.
Non-refundable fares
Non-refundable tickets cancelled before departure convert to a future flight credit for the amount paid.
How long credits last
United future flight credits are generally valid for 12 months from the original ticket issue date. Credits from cancelled flights may carry different terms — read the specific credit.
Your rights when the airline cancels
If United cancels or significantly changes your flight and you decline the alternative, DOT rules entitle you to an automatic cash refund rather than a credit. United must issue it without you asking.
Cancelling before departure
No-show forfeits the ticket. If you cannot travel, cancel before departure to preserve the value as a future flight credit.
How to request a refund
The United app handles rebooking during irregular operations unusually well — when a flight cancels it will often present alternatives before an agent can. Use it first.
If the airline does not respond
Submit a complaint via united.com/customercare. Unresolved matters can be filed with the US DOT Aviation Consumer Protection Division.
United cancellations & refunds — common questions
Can I get a refund from United?
Refundable fares refund to the original form of payment without penalty. Request through united.com rather than by phone — it is faster and creates a record. Non-refundable tickets cancelled before departure convert to a future flight credit for the amount paid.
How long is a United travel credit valid?
United future flight credits are generally valid for 12 months from the original ticket issue date. Credits from cancelled flights may carry different terms — read the specific credit.
Do I get cash back if United cancels my flight?
If United cancels or significantly changes your flight and you decline the alternative, DOT rules entitle you to an automatic cash refund rather than a credit. United must issue it without you asking.
More United help
Booking United? Talk to a US travel consultant.
Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.