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United Airlines Cancellation & Change Policy (2026)

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Quick Answer

United Airlines offers free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. After that, Main Cabin and above: no fee — receive travel credit. Basic Economy: non-refundable (no credit issued).

24-Hour Free Cancellation

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.

Change Fees by Fare Class

Fare ClassChange Fee
basic EconomyNo changes allowed (ticket value forfeited)
main CabinNo fee (fare difference applies)
premiumNo fee (fare difference applies)
businessNo fee (fare difference applies)

Cancellation Fees & Refund Type

Fare ClassCancellation Policy
basic EconomyNon-refundable (no credit issued)
main CabinNo fee — receive travel credit
premiumNo fee — receive travel credit or refund
businessNo fee — full refund

How Refunds Work

Refundable fares: original payment. Non-refundable: United travel credit valid 1 year from issue date.

Same-Day Flight 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 Your United Airlines Flight

  1. 1Online at united.com → My Trips → Cancel
  2. 2United app → My Trips → Cancel Flight
  3. 3Call 800-864-8331 (24/7)
  4. 4At United ticket counter

Expert 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

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.

More United Airlines Guides