United Airlines Cancellation Policy (2026) — Change Fees, Refunds & How to Cancel
Full refund to original payment within 24 hours of booking. Must be booked at least 7 days before departure for flights originating in the US.
24-Hour Rule
Yes — free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. Full refund to original payment within 24 hours of booking. Must be booked at least 7 days before departure for flights originating in the US.
Cancellation Fees
| Fare Class | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | Non-refundable (no credit issued) |
| Main Cabin | No fee — receive travel credit |
| Premium | No fee — receive travel credit or refund |
| Business | No fee — full refund |
Change Fees
| Fare Class | Fee |
|---|---|
| Basic Economy | No changes allowed (ticket value forfeited) |
| Main Cabin | No fee (fare difference applies) |
| Premium | No fee (fare difference applies) |
| Business | No fee (fare difference applies) |
Refund Method
Refundable fares: original payment. Non-refundable: United travel credit valid 1 year from issue date.
Same-Day Change
Free for Economy and above when changing to same-day flight on same route. Fare difference may apply.
No-Show Policy
Basic Economy: ticket forfeited entirely. Other fares: credit issued minus any applicable fee.
How to Cancel
- Online at united.com → My Trips → Cancel
- United app → My Trips → Cancel Flight
- Call 800-864-8331 (24/7)
- At United ticket counter
Tips
- United's 24-hour rule requires 7-day advance booking (stricter than others)
- MileagePlus Premier members get enhanced flexibility
- Travel credits are non-transferable — book under the same name
- Consider Travel Insurance for Basic Economy tickets
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is United Airlines cancellation policy?
- United Airlines cancellation policy allows free cancellation within 24 hours of booking (must be booked 7+ days before departure for US flights). After 24 hours: Main Cabin — no fee — receive travel credit. Basic Economy — non-refundable (no credit issued).
- Can I cancel a United Airlines flight for free?
- Yes — Full refund to original payment within 24 hours of booking. Must be booked at least 7 days before departure for flights originating in the US. No fee — receive travel credit
- What is United Airlines's change fee?
- Main Cabin: No fee (fare difference applies). Basic Economy: No changes allowed (ticket value forfeited).
- How do I get a refund from United Airlines?
- Refundable fares: original payment. Non-refundable: United travel credit valid 1 year from issue date.
- What happens if I no-show on United Airlines?
- Basic Economy: ticket forfeited entirely. Other fares: credit issued minus any applicable fee.