Airline Refund Deadlines & Your Right to Payment
The DOT sets firm deadlines for airline refunds. If your money hasn't arrived, you have the right to demand it — and to escalate to a federal complaint.
What the DOT Requires
Your rights are protected by the US Department of Transportation. Use this information to escalate your case.
Airlines must issue refunds within 7 business days for credit and debit card purchases and 20 calendar days for cash or check payments under the DOT's April 2024 Refund Rule.
This rule applies to canceled flights, significantly changed itineraries where you chose not to travel, and some significant delays.
Accepting a travel voucher or credit is voluntary — if the original disruption qualifies for a cash refund, you can still demand one even if you were previously offered a credit.
What to say to the airline
Knowing exactly what to say to the customer service agent increases your chances of immediate resolution.
Reference the exact date you requested the refund and cite the DOT's 7-business-day (credit card) or 20-calendar-day (cash) deadline.
State explicitly: 'This refund is overdue under DOT regulations and I am requesting it be processed immediately.'
If you were previously offered a voucher and accepted it under pressure, note that you were not informed of your right to a cash refund.
Avoid: Do not accept a travel credit or voucher as a substitute for a cash refund unless you genuinely prefer it — a refund means money back to your original payment method.
Avoid: Do not let the airline cite internal processing timelines that exceed the DOT-mandated deadlines — their internal processes do not override federal rules.
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