United Airlines Refund Policy: Complete 2025 Guide for Every Traveler

United Airlines Refund Policy- Tours N Travel Pro(+1-866-679-5070)

Need to cancel your United flight? Wondering if you're eligible for a refund or just a future credit? This in-depth guide breaks down the United Airlines refund policy for every fare type — refundable, non-refundable, award tickets, and more — along with step-by-step instructions and pro tips.

Need help now? Call +1-866-679-5070 to speak with a live United refund support expert at Tours N Travel Pro.


Quick Summary: United Refund Eligibility

  • Refundable Fare

    • Eligible for full cash refund before flight departure

  • Non-Refundable Fare

    • Refund only if canceled within 24 hours of booking (under DOT rule)

  • Basic Economy

    • Refundable only within 24 hours of booking

  • Award Tickets (Miles)

    • Miles redeposited, minus a fee if a no-show ($125)

  • Flight Canceled by United

    • Eligible for full cash refund regardless of fare type



United Airlines 24-Hour Cancellation Policy (DOT Rule)

Per U.S. Department of Transportation guidelines, United offers a full refund if:

  • You cancel within 24 hours of booking, and

  • The flight is 7 or more days away

This applies to all fare types, including Basic Economy.

👉 How to Cancel Within 24 Hours:

  1. Visit united.com or use the United app

  2. Go to “My Trips”

  3. Select “Cancel flight” and confirm


Refundable vs Non-Refundable Tickets

Refundable Tickets

  • Can be canceled anytime before departure

  • Full refund to your original payment method

  • Processed within 7–10 business days

Non-Refundable Tickets

  • Only eligible for refund under:

    • 24-hour cancellation policy

    • Military orders or death of passenger (documentation required)

    • Schedule change or flight cancellation by United

  • Otherwise, you're issued future flight credit (valid for 12 months)


United Basic Economy Refund Rules

  • Strictest policy

  • Only refundable under the 24-hour DOT rule

  • After 24 hours, tickets are non-changeable and non-refundable

  • No future credit or travel voucher provided


What Happens If United Cancels Your Flight?

If United Airlines cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund regardless of ticket type — including Basic Economy.

You're eligible if:

  • The cancellation was made by United

  • The schedule was significantly changed

  • A delay of 2+ hours occurs (depending on the situation)

📌 Tip: Airlines may offer travel credit first. You can insist on a cash refund under DOT rules.


Award Tickets & Mileage Plus Miles Refunds

If you booked using miles:

  • You’ll receive your miles back (if eligible)

  • $125 fee for no-shows (waived for Premier members)

  • Taxes and fees are refunded to original payment method

Steps to Cancel Award Ticket:

  1. Sign in to your Mileage Plus account

  2. Go to "My Trips"

  3. Choose the booking → Cancel → Request miles redeposit


How to Request a Refund from United Airlines

Online Refund Request

  1. Visit United’s refund form

  2. Enter flight confirmation number

  3. Choose reason for refund (e.g., schedule change, medical, DOT policy)

  4. Submit and wait for confirmation

Phone Support (For Faster Help)

📞 Call +1-866-679-5070  to speak with a refund support team member at Tours N Travel Pro.


Refunds for International Flights

International bookings follow similar rules but may take longer to process. Documentation may be needed depending on:

  • Visa issues

  • Country-specific laws

  • Fare rules with partner airlines

✈️ Refunds may take 15–20 business days to process for international credit cards.


How Long Does a United Airlines Refund Take?

  • Credit card refunds are processed within 7–10 business days.

  • Bank or debit card refunds may take up to 20 business days.

  • Miles (MileagePlus) are typically refunded instantly or within 7 days.

  • Travel credits for non-refundable tickets are issued immediately upon cancellation.


Pro Tips for a Smoother Refund Process

  • Cancel within 24 hours if you're unsure of your plans

  • Document everything (e.g., cancellation reasons, flight changes)

  • ✅ Use credit cards with travel protection in case of denied refunds

  • ✅ If denied, escalate to U.S. DOT complaint portal


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I get a full refund from United if I cancel after 24 hours?

Only if your ticket is refundable or United cancels your flight. Otherwise, expect future credit.

Q2. How do I check if my United ticket is refundable?

Log in to your booking, and check under “Ticket Details.” Refundable tickets are clearly marked.

Q3. What happens if I no-show for a United flight?

You won’t get a refund. Award bookings may incur a $125 redeposit fee.

Q4. Can I cancel a United flight booked through a third party?

You must cancel through the third party (e.g., travel agency), unless United made a schedule change.


Final Thoughts

Navigating the United Airlines refund policy doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're dealing with a refundable ticket or stuck with a non-changeable Basic Economy fare, knowing your rights and the right process makes all the difference.

Bookmark this guide and reach out to our team if you need personal help. Call +1-866-679-5070