5 Airline Voucher Rules Travelers Should Know Before Accepting Credit Instead of a Refund

Airline cancellations often trigger automatic cash refunds under DOT rules, but accepting a voucher can permanently waive that right and shift control back to airline policies – Shutterstock

Since late 2024, airlines have been required to provide automatic cash refunds when flights are canceled or significantly changed, and passengers choose not to travel. Yet many travelers still accept vouchers without realizing they may be giving up money they’re legally entitled to receive. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s updated refund rules were designed to eliminate confusion, but consumer advocates say many passengers still don’t understand when they can insist on cash instead of credit.

When announcing the rule, the DOT said the changes were intended to “establish a single, clear outcome” for travelers whose flights are canceled or significantly disrupted, replacing inconsistent airline policies with uniform consumer protections.