Whether you can change seats after purchase on Ticketmaster depends on several factors. Ticketmaster offers different options for changing seats depending on the event, when you purchased the tickets, and the specific ticket terms. In general, changing seats is possible but may involve additional fees. Keep reading for a detailed look at the policies and processes for changing seats on Ticketmaster.
Can You Change Seats on Ticketmaster?
Yes, in most cases it is possible to change seats on Ticketmaster after you have already purchased tickets. However, the specific policies, fees, and processes for changing seats will vary.
Some key things to keep in mind:
- Timing – The closer it is to the event date, the more difficult it will likely be to change seats. Changes are easiest immediately after purchasing.
- Fees – There are often fees charged by Ticketmaster for changing seats after purchase. These fees vary based on timing and other factors.
- Availability – Your ability to change seats depends on what other seats are still available for purchase/exchange.
- Policies – Different venues, teams, artists etc. have different policies regarding exchanges through Ticketmaster.
So in summary – yes you can change seats in most cases if seats are available, but there may be fees and availability may be limited the closer you get to the event. Check the specific event page for details.
When Can You Change Seats?
The timing of when you want to change seats is the most important factor in determining if you can change seats and what the process will be. Here is an overview of how timing impacts changing seats on Ticketmaster:
Immediately After Purchase
If you need to change seats immediately after purchasing tickets on Ticketmaster, this is the easiest time to do it.
Typically for a short period after purchase (usually around 1 hour), Ticketmaster allows you to cancel your ticket purchase and re-purchase new tickets. This essentially allows you to change seats, choose different tickets, etc. without fees.
You will likely just need to pay any difference in ticket price if you choose new, more expensive tickets.
After Initial Purchase Period
Once the initial cancellation/re-purchase period has ended, you can still change seats on Ticketmaster but the process is different.
Rather than cancelling and re-purchasing, you will need to do an even exchange of tickets. This involves:
- Finding alternate available tickets in the seating area you want.
- Contacting Ticketmaster by phone or online chat to initiate an even exchange of your current tickets for the new available tickets.
- In some cases, paying an exchange fee.
Exchanges are possible up until 24-48 hours before an event in most cases. The available inventory of alternate seats will decline over time as an event approaches.
Day of Event
On the day of an event, changing seats through Ticketmaster is very difficult and unlikely. At this point, you will need to inquire at the venue if any alternate seats are available for purchase. Options will be extremely limited at this point.
Your best bet is to exchange seats with another fan informally once you are inside the venue if you need to change seats day of event.
Fees for Changing Seats on Ticketmaster
In many cases, Ticketmaster will charge a fee for exchanging tickets and changing seats after the initial purchase window expires.
This is essentially a convenience fee they charge for providing the exchange service and new tickets.
Some key things to know about Ticketmaster’s exchange fees:
Fee Amount
The exchange fee amount typically ranges from $5-$20 per ticket depending on the event. Higher demand events tend to have higher exchange fees.
Per Ticket Fee
The exchange fee is charged on a per ticket basis. So if you originally purchased 4 tickets, and want to exchange them all, you will pay 4 x the exchange fee.
Waivers
In some cases, Ticketmaster may waive the exchange fee, for example:
- If there is an issue with the original tickets (obstructed view, etc.)
- If tickets are exchanged for higher value tickets
- If exchanging a very large volume of tickets
But in general you can expect to pay a per ticket exchange fee in the $5-$20 range if you change seats after the initial purchase window.
Changing Seats Process on Ticketmaster
If you need to change seats after the initial cancellation period has ended, here is the general process to complete an exchange on Ticketmaster:
Step 1: Find Available Tickets
First you will need to find the new tickets you want on Ticketmaster. Search for the event and choose seats you want in a different location. Make sure tickets are still available for purchase in that seating area and the quantity you need.
Step 2: Contact Ticketmaster
Once you see available tickets, you need to contact Ticketmaster by phone or chat to begin the exchange:
- Phone: 1-800-653-8000
- Online chat: Access via your Ticketmaster account
Explain you want to do an even exchange from your original tickets to the new tickets you found available. Have both ticket orders ready to provide details.
Step 3: Complete Exchange
The Ticketmaster rep will verify if an exchange is possible and let you know of any exchange fees. If ready to proceed, they will cancel your original tickets and purchase the new ones you selected.
Payment of any exchange fees will be required. Once processed, your new tickets will be available in your Ticketmaster account.
Tips for Changing Seats on Ticketmaster
Here are some tips and best practices when you need to or want to change seats on Ticketmaster after initial purchase:
Act Quickly
Try to initiate the exchange as soon as possible after purchasing your original tickets. The longer you wait, the more difficult and expensive changing seats will be.
Verify Policies
Before choosing new seats, verify the event and venue policies on Ticketmaster exchanges. Some may not allow exchanges at all.
Call for Large Groups
If you purchased a large block of tickets, calling Ticketmaster is best vs. trying to exchange online. Availability is less likely for large groups.
Avoid Peak Times
Avoid calling Ticketmaster on major on-sale days when exchange wait times will be longest. Weekday evenings tend to have the shortest wait.
Consider Resale
If exchanges are not allowed or fees are too high, reselling your original tickets and buying new ones may be an option. Use caution to avoid scams.
Changing Seats for Sold Out Events
For extremely high demand events that are sold out, changing seats through Ticketmaster will be very difficult. However, it is not impossible in some cases. Options include:
Premium Inventory Releases
Venues will sometimes release last minute premium inventory (VIP, suites, etc.) that provides opportunity to get better seats even when the event is sold out. Availability is not guaranteed but worth monitoring.
Ticket Releases
In some cases, additional ticket blocks may be released for sold out events if production holds tickets or venue capacity is increased. Monitoring presales and general sales closely is key.
Exchanges and Returns
Fans will exchange and return tickets for sold out events, making random single seats available. You may be able to take advantage of this inventory if you are flexible on exact seating location.
Buying Resale Tickets
Likely the best option for sold out events is purchasing verified resale tickets which allow you to get new seat locations. Prices are elevated due to demand however. Use caution to avoid scams on unverified resale sites.
Conclusion
Changing seats after an initial Ticketmaster ticket purchase is possible in most cases if done promptly and availability exists. Fees, policies, and processes vary across events so check details carefully before initiating an exchange. For sold out events, exchanging tickets is unlikely but other avenues like premium releases or resale tickets may provide options. Understand all policies and potential fees before completing any Ticketmaster ticket exchange.
Changing seats through Ticketmaster becomes more difficult over time as an event approaches and availability declines. Act quickly if you need better seats or different location. With some diligence, changing seats is possible through Ticketmaster but does require following the proper procedures.
Time Frame | Process | Things to Know |
---|---|---|
Immediately After Purchase | Cancel and re-purchase | No fees, easy process |
After Initial Period | Even exchange | Fees likely, limits on availability |
Day of Event | Unlikely via Ticketmaster | Extremely difficult, buy at venue if possible |
Key Takeaways
- Changing seats on Ticketmaster is possible in most cases
- First hour after purchase allows cancellation and re-purchase
- After initial period, even exchange process used
- Fees apply for exchanges, usually $5-$20 per ticket
- Availability declines over time, act quickly for best options
- Sold out events require alternative approaches like premium inventory or resale
Changing seats through Ticketmaster requires understanding the policies and navigating the proper procedures. With some effort, better seats can be obtained in many scenarios. Act quickly, know the fees, and leverage options like exchanges and resale to maximize your chances of getting the seats you want.