• 14 Jan, 2026
  • Travel tips

United Airlines continuously supports its passengers throughout their journey, providing exemplary services to ensure an optimal experience. Recognizing that travelers frequently encounter issues related to refunds, the airline has implemented a generous refund policy. This policy encompasses adaptable rules and guidelines that enable passengers to receive equitable refunds. This article aims to thoroughly elucidate the relevant policies, regulations, and procedures, thereby informing you comprehensively about the refund process with United Airlines. Accordingly, it is recommended that you carefully review the subsequent sections of this article to facilitate a smooth and efficient refund request. 

United Airlines Refund Policy

United Airlines is committed to ensuring that passengers receive a fair refund when they cancel, as long as certain conditions are met. For a clear understanding of what those conditions are, consider reviewing the points outlined below:

  • If a passenger declines to travel because of significant scheduled changes or cancellations, they are welcome to request a full refund. 
  • The refund details, including the amount and type, depend on factors like the fare class, ticket rules, and when the request is made. 
  • As per United Airlines' risk-free cancellation and refund policy, if passengers voluntarily cancel their ticket within 24 hours of purchase, they are entitled to a full refund. 
  • If passengers have paid with a credit card, the refund usually takes about seven business days to process, but other payment methods might take around 20 days. 
  • If miles were used to purchase a flight ticket, the miles will not be returned, but the same ticket can still be cancelled for a refund. 

How can you request a refund for a United Airlines Flight?

United Airlines provided specific procedures for passengers to efficiently initiate a refund request. The three primary methods, which are widely recognized and utilized, are outlined below. Consequently, please review the following procedures for requesting a refund from United Airlines flights:

Through Website

United Airlines' user-friendly and interactive website provides a quick way to modify your flight ticket to suit your preferences. Although the process is straightforward, the points below clarify it for easier understanding. Follow these steps to complete the process:

  • Browse 'www.united.com' to access the official website of United Airlines. 
  • Click on 'My Trips' at the top of the page, then below 'manage my trips', click on 'request a refund.' 
  • Enter the required details on the page and click 'Continue' to proceed. 
  • The airlines will contact you shortly after receiving your refund request. 

Through Calling

Passengers are encouraged to contact the airlines through United Airlines' designated contact number, 1-800-323-0170. The representatives will assist you in facilitating a seamless refund process and handling any complexities. To initiate a refund, consider dialing the hotline, selecting the appropriate options, and connecting with a customer service representative. The service operates without specified hours, allowing passengers to reach an airline's representative at any convenient time.

At the Airport

Even if passengers have arrived at the airport, there is no cause for concern. Representatives and agents of United Airlines are present at the airport counters to assist customers with the necessary procedures. Then you may have to join the queue with your documents read and hand them over to the representatives with your refund request. This way, the airlines ensure your experience remains smooth and hassle-free from arrival. 

When should you request a refund for a United Airlines Flight?

If you are uncertain when the most appropriate and advantageous time to submit the request is, please consider reviewing the outlined steps below. Under these circumstances, soliciting a refund would be the best and most beneficial for the passengers. Consequently, the following guidelines will inform you of the best cases:

  • If the airline has modified or altered the tickets and they are not accessible to the agents, or if the flight has been involuntarily canceled, passengers are eligible for a refund. 
  • In another case, passengers are downgraded to a lower cabin class, and the airlines offer them full fares. 
  • When the refund penalties exceed the base fare, the airline might completely refund the passengers. 
  • If there has been a medical emergency or an unfortunate event of someone passing away, here are options to consider, 

How much Refund does United Airlines offer?

The refund amount from United Airlines is contingent upon various factors, including the timing of the cancellation, the fare type purchased, and whether the airline or an unexpected circumstance caused the flight disruption. In numerous instances, passengers may be entitled to a full refund; however, in other cases, they might only receive a travel credit or no reimbursement whatsoever. Generally, for most flights, United Airlines provides a full refund if the request is made within 24 hours of making the purchase. 

How can you contact United Airlines to get a Refund?

Passengers are encouraged to contact United Airlines through various channels, including telephone, online chat, or social media platforms. For further clarification, please review the following sections and select the most appropriate method that suits your preference:

  • Calling: Passengers can contact United Airlines' 24/7 helpline desk by calling the United Airlines customer service number 1-800-3230170 and receiving the required assistance. They may also consider conveniently calling United Airlines representatives and asking for a refund. 
  • Chat: On United Airlines' contact page, passengers can also access the chat option, through which they can receive 24/7 guidance without waiting in long holding queues. Simply by clicking on 'Chat With US', passengers can begin asking their queries and questions. 
  • Email: While no dedicated email address exists, United Airlines offers a contact form for passengers to email the airline's customer care. They can also use it to send a compliment, complaint, or question. 

Things to Keep in Mind before Making a Refund Request for a United Airlines Flight

Before you consider making a direct request for a refund, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with some essential considerations. Take a moment to understand the following details; they will make the procedure of submitting your request and receiving a response smoother and easier. Carefully read through the upcoming tips to get started on the right foot. 

  • Reviewing the Refund Policy: Knowing the United Airlines refund policy inside out is helpful. It helps you understand all the essential details and rules. Taking the time to learn about the policy can make your experience much smoother and stress-free. 
  • Fare Type: Your type of fare will help you decide how the refund will be processed. If your ticket is refundable, you may be able to get back all the charges you paid. However, with non-refundable fares, you might only receive some specific airport or government taxes, and the deduction charges will be more. 
  • Fare Rules & Guidelines: You should also familiarize yourself with the guidance related to the fares, as they will inform you about the rules, regulations, and the fare eligibility for a refund. Therefore, it is essential to review the guidelines for your fare thoroughly. 
  • Comprehend the Charges: Being aware of the potential charges would make things less stressful for passengers. However, United Airlines offers a risk-free cancellation policy, under which a complete refund will be provided if bookings are made within 24 hours of making the purchase. 
  • Refund Timings: The refund processing time depends on the payment channel used to purchase the ticket. If credit cards were used, the payments would most likely be returned within 7 days of making the request, while other payment channels may require around 20 days to be returned to the passengers' accounts. 

How can you contact AVTickets for a Flight Refund?

Choosing us is always a beneficial decision. We at AVTikckets value our customers, think of them as our own, and are committed to delivering appropriate guidance and assistance at any stage of their journey. By trusting us, requiring modifications to your ticket, wishing to add a service, or seeking a detail, you may reach out to us, and we will efficiently address your needs. You may think of reaching us through the various methods listed below: 

  • Calling: Our esteemed customers are encouraged to contact us at +1-888-520-9972 at any hour. Our commitment to customer satisfaction drives our team to provide 24/7 support. We kindly request that customers notify us at least 72 hours before their scheduled departure to enable us to accommodate their requests seamlessly. 
  • Emailing: Are you thinking of a different option? Feel free to email us your request. Just include a detailed explanation of what you would like to change with your ticket. Do not forget to attach any relevant documents and details. This will make it easier for our team to assist you quickly and seamlessly. 

FAQ

Passengers must submit their booking reference number or ticket number, along with their name, to request a refund for their booked flight ticket.

United Airlines offers the My Trips feature for requesting a refund, through which passengers can make their desired amendments, including requesting a refund.

Per the United Airlines refund policy, passengers are entitled to a full refund for flights canceled by the airline's side or involuntarily.

United Airlines does not have a static or fixed charge or fee for requesting a refund; the cost may depend on the type of ticket purchased. Generally, non-refundable tickets cost more to cancel than refundable fares.

United Airlines passengers can request a refund through the airline's My Trips feature or by filling out a request form on the website.

United Airlines generally offers two kinds of refunds: fully refundable refunds, where any changes or cancellations of the flight are due to an involuntary cause. At the same time, another is a partial refund with deducted charges offered to the passengers.

United Airlines processes refunds made through credit cards in seven business days, while other payment channels may take 20 business days to credit passengers' accounts.