In the opening paragraph, we’ll provide a quick answer to the main question – are NFL tickets from Ticketmaster refundable? The short answer is that Ticketmaster’s refund policy for NFL tickets depends on the specific event and seat location. Generally, Ticketmaster aims to provide options for refunds or exchanges whenever possible if an event is canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. However, every event has its own set of guidelines, so attendees need to check the details for their specific tickets.
NFL Ticket Refund Basics
Before diving into the specifics of Ticketmaster’s policies, it helps to understand some of the key factors that impact NFL ticket refunds in general:
- Regular season vs. postseason – The regular NFL season runs from September to December/January. This consists of 272 total games played by the 32 NFL teams. Playoff games begin in January, culminating with the Super Bowl in February. Refund policies may differ between regular season and postseason games.
- Individual team policies – In addition to league-wide policies, individual NFL teams may have their own ticket refund terms. Ticketmaster tickets follow the guidelines set by the team and venue.
- Game status – Whether a game is canceled, postponed, delayed, interrupted, or played as scheduled impacts refund eligibility.
- Seat location – Tickets for premium club seats, suites, or other VIP sections often have different (more strict) refund policies than standard seats.
With those key factors in mind, let’s take a closer look at Ticketmaster’s approach to refunds for NFL games.
Ticketmaster NFL Refund Policies
As the official ticketing partner of the NFL, Ticketmaster sells tickets for all preseason, regular season, and postseason NFL games. This includes single game tickets sold during the initial on-sale periods and throughout the season as game dates approach.
Ticketmaster’s refund policies incorporate the guidelines established by the NFL, individual teams, and stadiums. Some key points include:
- Canceled games – Full refunds are issued if a game is canceled and cannot be rescheduled. This most often occurs due to weather events, natural disasters, or other safety issues.
- Postponed games – If a game is postponed due to non-weather emergencies, tickets can typically be used for the rescheduled game date. If the new date doesn’t work, fans can request a refund within a certain timeframe (often 7-14 days of the postponement announcement).
- Rescheduled games – Tickets for games moved to a new date/time are usually valid for the new game time. Refunds may be issued if the new time doesn’t work for a ticket holder’s schedule.
- Delayed/interrupted games – If a game is significantly delayed or interrupted but eventually completed, refunds are generally not provided. However, exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.
- Standard seats – Refunds for canceled games or events are typically offered for standard seating sections. Exchanges may be offered for postponements or rescheduling per individual game policies.
- Premium seats – Club seats, suites, and other premium offerings often have different (less flexible) refund terms. Policy details are included during the purchase process.
The specifics of the refund policy are included on each Ticketmaster ticket listing. Fans should carefully review this information during the purchasing process. Ticketmaster also sends reminder emails with policy details as the event approaches.
How to Request Refunds on Ticketmaster
If an NFL game is canceled or refunds are offered according to the event policy, Ticketmaster provides several options for getting your money back:
- Online refund form – Ticket holders can complete Ticketmaster’s online refund request form and submit details on the tickets eligible for a refund.
- Contact customer support – Fans can call Ticketmaster customer service or access online chat support to discuss refund options with a representative.
- In-person at box office – Refunds can also be handled in person at the box office on event day, if applicable.
Refund processing timeframes vary based on individual event policies and volume of requests. Direct bank transfers or refunds to the original payment method may take 7-10 business days once approved. Exchanges for comparable tickets to another game or event are often arranged more quickly.
Key Factors in Ticket Refund Eligibility
When reviewing NFL ticket refund policies, there are some key factors that typically determine eligibility:
Game Status
- Canceled game – Full refund provided if game is canceled without a makeup date.
- Postponed game – Option for refund within set timeframe, or use tickets for new date.
- Rescheduled game – Tickets usually valid for new date/time, with refunds for those who can’t attend.
- Delayed/interrupted game – Refunds generally not provided if game is completed on same date.
Seat Type
- Standard seats – More flexible refund terms.
- Premium seats – Premium clubs, suites have stricter no-refund policies.
Season Timing
- Regular season – Refunds for cancellations, limitations for postponements/delays.
- Playoffs and Super Bowl – No refunds given high demand, historical sellouts.
Reviewing the specific event policy details from Ticketmaster is always the best way for buyers to understand their options before purchasing tickets.
Other Ticketing Platform Refund Policies
In addition to Ticketmaster, the NFL also sells tickets through other official partners. Policies may vary slightly among platforms.
NFL Ticket Exchange (Ticketmaster Resale Market)
- Refund terms set by individual sellers, not Ticketmaster.
- Requires agreement between buyer and seller.
- Canceled events only: Send requests within 5 days for refund review.
On Location Experiences (Official NFL Partner)
- Packages often have no refunds, but credits may be issued if event canceled.
- Policies depend on specific package type.
Vivid Seats (NFL Secondary Market Reseller)
- No refunds for delayed or postponed NFL games.
- Full refunds if event is canceled and not rescheduled.
Other secondary market resellers like StubHub, SeatGeek, and more also sell NFL tickets with specific policies in place. Be sure to review closely before purchasing.
Best Practices for NFL Ticket Refunds
To allow for the best chance of getting a refund on NFL tickets when eligible, fans should follow these best practices:
- Read policies carefully – Understand options before buying tickets.
- Buy early – Full-price direct sales have more flexibility vs. resale.
- Get insurance – Optional ticket insurance can cover cancellations.
- Act promptly – Request refunds/exchanges within required timeframes.
- Keep documentation – Save receipts and communications regarding policies.
While refunds are never guaranteed for live sporting events, being an informed buyer is the best way to secure options in case plans change unexpectedly.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, the availability of refunds for NFL tickets depends on the specific game, seat location, and ticketing platform policies. While fans can’t expect to get their money back in every scenario, Ticketmaster and other NFL partners aim to provide refunds or exchanges when feasible for canceled or rescheduled events.
Carefully reviewing all policies in advance, acting promptly when eligible, and considering protections like ticket insurance are key factors in maximizing the chances for a refund. Every fan’s circumstances are unique, so be sure to assess your options closely as you shop for tickets.
