# How to get a refund from United Airlines?
## United Airlines refund policy | 1-808-865-4114 |United Airlines Cancellation Policy after 24 hours
Changing travel plans is a part of life—and if you’ve booked a flight with United Airlines1-808-865-4114, you may be wondering how to get your money back. Whether you're dealing with a canceled flight, schedule changes, or refundable tickets, United offers several options for obtaining a refund. This complete guide explains everything you need to know about getting a refund from United Airlines in 2025.
### **1. United Airlines Refund Overview**
[United Airlines issues refunds](https://traveltips247.bettermode.io/discussions/post/how-to-get-a-refund-from-united-airlines-YwSsZTLzQSdnBId) 1-808-865-4114based on the type of ticket you purchased and the reason for the cancellation. Not all tickets are eligible for a cash refund, but even in those cases, you may receive a travel credit or electronic travel certificate for future use.
Refunds can be requested online, by phone, or in some cases, automatically processed by United if they cancel your flight.
**2. Tickets Eligible for a Refund**
A. Refundable Tickets
You will receive a full refund if you cancel before departure.
Applies to refundable fares in all cabin classes.
Refunds are issued to your original form of payment.
B. Non-Refundable Tickets
Refunds are not typically issued, unless:
You cancel within 24 hours of booking.
United cancels or significantly changes your flight.
There is a qualifying medical emergency or death.
If not eligible for a refund, you will usually receive future flight credit.
C. Award Tickets (MileagePlus)
Mileage can be reinstated for free if canceled before departure.
Taxes and fees are refunded to the original payment method.
**3. 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation**
All tickets—refundable or not—can be canceled within 24 hours of purchase if:
The booking was made at least 7 days before departure.
The ticket was purchased directly from United Airlines (website, app, phone, or ticket office).
You will receive a full refund to your original payment method with no cancellation fee.
### **4. How to Request a Refund from United Airlines**
A. Online via United’s Refund Form
Visit https://www.united.com/refunds.
Click on “Request a refund.”
Enter your ticket number (13-digit number starting with 016) and last name.
Choose a reason for the refund and upload any supporting documentation (if applicable).
Submit the form and wait for confirmation.
B. United App or Website (for Trip Cancellations)
Log in to your United MileagePlus account.
Go to My Trips and locate your flight.
Select “Cancel Flight.”
If eligible, choose “Request a refund” rather than a travel credit.
C. By Phone
If you prefer to speak with an agent or need help with a complex case, call:
United Reservations (U.S.): 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-808-865-4114/1-800-864-8331)
International numbers are listed on United’s website.
D. In-Person at the Airport
Visit a United ticket counter for assistance. You’ll need your:
Photo ID
Confirmation number or e-ticket
Supporting documents (if applicable)
**5. Refund Timelines**
United Airlines processes refunds based on your payment method:
Payment Method Refund Timeframe
Credit/Debit Card 7 business days (usually faster)
Cash/Check Up to 20 business days
Travel credit/ETC Instant upon processing
You’ll receive a confirmation email once your refund has been approved and processed.
**6. Refund for Flight Cancellations by United**
If United cancels your flight or makes a significant schedule change (typically 2+ hours):
You are eligible for a full refund, even on non-refundable tickets.
United may also offer free rebooking, but you can refuse and request a refund.
These refunds are typically automatic, but you can still submit a request manually if needed.
**7. Special Circumstances That Qualify for Refunds**
A. Illness or Medical Emergency
United may issue a refund in cases of serious illness or hospitalization.
Submit documentation such as a doctor’s note or hospital record.
B. Death of a Passenger or Immediate Family Member
Provide a death certificate or obituary.
Refunds are handled on a case-by-case basis.
C. Military Orders
Active duty members with redeployment orders may be eligible.
Documentation is required.
**8. What If You Booked Through a Third Party?**
If you booked your ticket via:
Online travel agencies (Expedia, Priceline, etc.)
A travel agent
Corporate travel portals
Contact the third party directly to process the refund or cancellation. United can’t issue refunds for tickets it didn’t sell directly.
**9. Refunds for Extras (Seats, Bags, Wi-Fi, Upgrades)**
Seat Assignments
Refundable if the flight is canceled or seat service isn’t provided.
Baggage Fees
Refundable if the flight is canceled, delayed, or bags aren’t transported.
Wi-Fi Purchases
Contact the Wi-Fi provider (e.g., Panasonic or Gogo) directly.
Upgrades
Refundable if upgrade not delivered (e.g., involuntary downgrade).
Use the same refund form or contact customer service to claim these refunds.
**10. United Travel Credit vs. Refund**
If you're not eligible for a refund, you can often opt for travel credit instead:
Option Description
Travel Credit Credit for future flights, valid for 12 months
Refund Money back to original payment method
You’ll often be offered travel credit by default when canceling a non-refundable flight, but you can still submit a refund request manually if you think your case qualifies.
**11. Tips for a Successful Refund Request**
Cancel ASAP: Prompt cancellations help avoid penalties or forfeitures.
Provide documentation: Especially for emergency cases.
Use the refund form: It creates a ticket and reference number.
Check the status: Visit united.com/refunds and click "Check status."
Follow up by phone if your refund is delayed.
**12. Frequently Asked Questions**
**Q1: Can I get a refund if I miss my flight?**
No. If you miss your flight and do not cancel in advance, you are marked as a no-show, and the fare is forfeited (especially for non-refundable tickets).
**Q2: What happens if my flight is delayed?**
If your flight is delayed significantly (2+ hours) and you choose not to travel, you can often request a refund or travel credit.
**Q3: How do I know if my ticket is refundable?**
Log into your MileagePlus account or check your confirmation email. Refundable fares will be marked clearly.
**Q4: How long does it take to get a refund?**
It depends on your payment method, but most refunds are processed within 7–20 business days.
**Q5: Can I refund part of my ticket (e.g., return leg only)?**
In most cases, partial refunds are not permitted unless you’ve purchased separate one-way fares. Contact United for evaluation.
**Final Thoughts**
Getting a [refund from United Airlines](https://traveltips247.bettermode.io/discussions/post/how-to-get-a-refund-from-united-airlines-YwSsZTLzQSdnBId) 1-808-865-4114is straightforward if you meet the eligibility criteria. Whether your ticket is refundable, canceled within 24 hours, or affected by a schedule disruption, there are ways to recover your money. For non-refundable tickets, travel credit is typically offered—giving you flexibility to book again later.