- 1). Print out a copy of your airline ticket. Verify that all relevant information is on the ticket and is accurate. Make sure the flight number, departing airport, arriving airport, dates of travel, flight times and your full name are listed properly on the ticket. Make sure the fare code is listed on the ticket, as the fare code is linked to the refund and return policy for the ticket you purchase.
- 2). Read the fine print on the airline ticket. Take note to any mentions or rules regarding canceled or returned tickets. Look for rules associated with reasons for canceling a ticket or delaying a trip. Pay attention to rules regarding unexpected personal emergencies or medical conditions preventing you from flying if that is the primary reason why you cannot take the flight you originally booked.
- 3). Read the ticket return policy on the airline's web site. Perform this additional refund policy check as airlines make concessions for extenuating circumstances in some cases. For example, during times where an approaching hurricane is potentially going to disrupt travel to the East Coast, airlines relax or waive ticket return fees or penalties to allow travelers to re-book flights to avoid potential travel delays. If you are canceling or returning a ticket due to an extenuating circumstance outside of your control such as fire, flood, adverse weather conditions or political unrest, make sure to mention that to the airline when requesting a ticket refund.
- 4). Call the airline directly and speak to a customer service agent. Ask to have your ticket canceled and to have a refund issued to you directly. Tell the agent the reason for your cancellation request and specifically note if it is due to a medical condition or a travel advisory that is currently in place. Have your original form of payment, such as your credit card used to purchase the ticket, ready to give to the agent. Ask if you will be receiving a cash or cash equivalent refund, if not, ask if you will be receiving a credit for future use. Write down information about the refund and note the expiration date for the airline credit.
- 5). Have the airline ticketing agent email or send to you a confirmation of your refund or credit. Keep the information in a safe location with a copy of your original flight ticket information as additional proof that your ticket was not used. Use your credit for future travel prior to the expiration date.
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