# What is the cancellation policy for United Airlines?
## United Airlines Cancellation Fee | 1-808-865-4114 | Refund & 24Hours

### [United Airlines Cancellation Policy](https://traveltips247.bettermode.io/discussions/post/what-is-the-cancellation-policy-for-united-airlines-KnrHNE5iw4X7dgu) (2025): A Comprehensive Guide

Travel plans can change for various reasons, and United Airlines offers flexible options for passengers needing to cancel their flights. Whether you booked a Basic Economy fare or a fully refundable ticket, understanding United's cancellation policy can help you avoid unnecessary fees and stress. Here’s everything you need to know.

**1. Overview of United Airlines Cancellation Policy**

United Airlines has updated its cancellation 1-808-865-4114and change policies in recent years to offer more flexibility. Most non-Basic Economy tickets can now be canceled or changed without fees, especially for travel within the U.S. and certain international destinations. Passengers can cancel flights via the United app, website, or customer service.

**2. 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation Policy**
United Airlines provides a 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy 1-808-865-4114for all fare types:

Applies to all tickets booked directly with United at least 7 days before departure.

You can cancel your reservation within 24 hours of booking and receive a full refund to your original payment method.

This includes Basic Economy fares (which are otherwise nonrefundable).

**3. Cancellation Policy by Fare Type**
A. Basic Economy Tickets
Nonrefundable and non-changeable after the 24-hour window.

No flight changes or cancellations are allowed outside the 24-hour risk-free period.

Travel credit or refunds are not issued unless United cancels the flight or there's a significant schedule change.

If you can't travel, you're generally responsible for forfeiting the ticket.

B. Standard Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class
No cancellation fee for most standard tickets, especially if you're flying within the U.S., or between the U.S. and:

Mexico

The Caribbean

Canada

You can cancel or change your flight at any time.

Refund eligibility depends on whether the fare is refundable or nonrefundable:

Nonrefundable tickets: You receive flight credit for the full amount.

Refundable tickets: You receive a refund to your original payment method.

**4. Refundable vs. Nonrefundable Tickets**
Refundable Tickets
Higher fare but complete flexibility.

Can be canceled anytime before departure.

Refund is processed back to the original payment method.

Available in all cabin classes, depending on fare option.

Nonrefundable Tickets
Lower cost, more restrictions.

If canceled, you get future flight credit valid for 12 months.

Credits are stored in your United account and can be applied to future bookings.

**5. How to Cancel a United Airlines Flight**
You can cancel your flight using several methods:

A. Online or Mobile App
Visit www.united.com or open the United app.

Log in to your MileagePlus account or find your trip using the confirmation number.

Navigate to “My Trips.”

Select the trip you want to cancel.

Choose “Cancel flight” and follow the prompts.

B. Over the Phone
Call United Airlines customer service at 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-808-865-4114/1-800-864-8331).

Be prepared with your confirmation number, full name, and travel details.

C. At the Airport
Visit a United ticket counter.

Show your identification and flight details to cancel in person.

**6. United Airlines Travel Credits**
If you cancel a nonrefundable ticket, you’ll receive a United Travel Credit:

Electronic Travel Certificate (ETC) or Future Flight Credit (FFC).

Valid for 12 months from the date of issue.

Can be used for flights operated by United and United Express.

Cannot be transferred to another passenger unless specified.

**7. Canceling Award Tickets (MileagePlus)**
MileagePlus award tickets (booked using miles) are more flexible:

You can cancel award tickets for free and redeposit miles for most ticket types.

No cancellation or redeposit fee as of 2025.

You can make changes online or via the United app.

**8. Special Circumstances and Exceptions**
A. Weather Cancellations or Airline-Initiated Changes
If United cancels your flight or changes your schedule significantly:

You are entitled to a full refund, regardless of fare type.

You may also request rebooking at no additional cost.

B. Medical or Emergency Situations
United may offer exceptions for medical emergencies or death in the family.

Documentation may be required (e.g., medical certificate or death certificate).

These are handled case-by-case through customer service.

**9. Cancellation Fees (Summary)**
Ticket Type Cancellation Fee Refund Option
Basic Economy Not allowed* None (except 24-hr cancellation)
Nonrefundable Fare $0 Travel credit
Refundable Fare $0 Full refund
Award Ticket $0 Mileage redeposit

*After 24 hours of booking, Basic Economy tickets are not cancelable.

**10. How to Check Your Refund or Credit Status**
To track the status of a refund or credit:

Go to united.com/refunds.

Click on “Check Status.”

Enter your refund request number and other required details.

Refunds usually take 7–20 business days, depending on your payment method.

**11. FAQs**
**Q1: Can I cancel a United flight the same day?**
Yes. United allows same-day cancellations, but refunds or credits depend on your fare type. Refundable tickets get a full refund; nonrefundable ones receive travel credit.

**Q2: What if United cancels my flight?**
If United cancels or significantly delays your flight, you're eligible for a full refund or a free rebooking.

**Q3: Can I cancel just one leg of my trip?**
Yes, you can cancel a single segment, but it may require re-ticketing or talking to customer service.

**Q4: Do travel insurance or third-party bookings affect cancellations?**
Yes. If you booked through a travel agency or online platform, you'll need to cancel through them. Travel insurance may offer additional protection.

**Q5: How long is United’s travel credit valid?**
United Travel Credits are valid for 12 months from the original issue date.

**12. Contacting United for Cancellations**
United Airlines Phone: 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-808-865-4114/1-800-864-8331)

International Contact Numbers: Available on United's website.

Online Help Center: https://www.united.com/help

**Final Thoughts**
**[United Airlines cancellation policies](https://traveltips247.bettermode.io/discussions/post/what-is-the-cancellation-policy-for-united-airlines-KnrHNE5iw4X7dgu)** among U.S. airlines, especially for non-Basic Economy tickets. Understanding your fare type and knowing how to access your options—refunds, credits, or rebooking—can make travel disruptions less stressful.

Always read the fare rules before booking and consider travel insurance for added peace of mind. Whether you're canceling due to a change in plans or a flight disruption, United provides multiple tools and channels to help you manage your booking efficiently.