Can you exchange tickets on Ticketmaster for another date?

Ticketmaster, as one of the largest ticket providers, allows ticket holders to exchange tickets for a different date or event under certain circumstances. The ability to exchange tickets depends on the event, the timing of the request, and the type of ticket purchased. Here is an overview of Ticketmaster’s policies on exchanging tickets and how to request an exchange if permitted.

Can Tickets Be Exchanged on Ticketmaster?

In general, yes, many Ticketmaster tickets can be exchanged but there are restrictions. Key factors that determine if a ticket is exchangeable include:

• The event – Each event creator/organizer sets their own exchange policy that Ticketmaster must follow
• The timing – Requests must be made before the event occurs
• The ticket type – Some specialty tickets cannot be exchanged

So whether or not an exchange is allowed depends first on the specific event. Many major concerts, sports games, theater shows, etc. will permit exchanges. But it’s not guaranteed. The event organizer ultimately sets the exchange policy that Ticketmaster enforces.

Exchange Policies Vary by Event

Every event creator or organizer can set specific exchange rules for their tickets on Ticketmaster. Policies vary widely on factors such as:

• If exchanges are allowed at all
• The deadline to request an exchange
• The fee to exchange tickets
• If exchanges are allowed for higher or lower priced tickets
• If exchanges are allowed between different events

So some events may prohibit exchanges entirely. Others may allow exchanges but charge a fee. Some may only allow exchanging tickets of the same or lower price. And so on. The policy can also change as the event date approaches.

For example, a major music festival may allow ticket exchanges up to 30 days before the event for a $15 fee per ticket. But a local community theater performance may not allow exchanges at all.

So the very first step is checking the specific exchange rules for your particular event.

Exchanges Must Be Requested Before the Event

Another general policy is that exchanges can only be requested before the event occurs. Ticketmaster will not process exhanges for tickets to an event that already happened.

Each event also sets its own exchange deadline. It may be weeks before or even up until hours before showtime. But exchanges are never allowed after an event starts or finishes.

Trying to exchange tickets after the event will result in being told the request cannot be processed.

Some Specialty Tickets Cannot Be Exchanged

Certain specialty tickets also cannot be exchanged according to Ticketmaster policy. Examples include:

• VIP tickets with extra amenities like premium seating, backstage access, etc.
• Travel or hotel package tickets that bundle tickets with other services
• Season ticket packages
• Non-ticket items like parking passes

So if you purchased one of these special ticket offerings, they are ineligible for exchange. The regular ticket policy for the event would not apply.

How to Exchange Tickets on Ticketmaster

If your review of the event and ticket terms indicates an exchange is permitted, here are the steps to complete the exchange:

1. Sign in to your Ticketmaster account online or via the app
2. Select the event for the tickets you want to exchange
3. Click on the Order Details link or button
4. Select the specific ticket(s) you want to exchange
5. Click the Exchange button which will walk you through the process including any fees
6. Select the new date/event you want to exchange the tickets for
7. Enter payment details if any fees are charged for the exchange
8. Review the details and complete the exchange
9. The original tickets will be invalidated and new tickets issued for the new event

It is a quick and straightforward process if exchanges are permitted. The key is checking the specific event policy first and requesting the exchange before the deadline.

Troubleshooting Ticket Exchanges on Ticketmaster

Here are some common issues that arise when trying to exchange Ticketmaster tickets and how to resolve them:

Exchange Option Not Available

If when viewing your Ticketmaster order, there is no Exchange button or option, then exchanges are not permitted for that event. Double check the event details and ticket purchase email, as this policy should be noted there.

Exchange Deadline Passed

Any exchange deadlines set by the event organizer must be met. If you didn’t request the exchange prior to the deadline, Ticketmaster will not process the request.

Specialty Non-Refundable Tickets

As mentioned earlier, certain VIP, package, or bundled tickets cannot be exchanged. The exchange restrictions are usually stated during the special ticket purchase flow.

Technical Issues Exchanging Tickets

If you are encountering errors trying to process the exchange online and are certain you meet the event policy criteria, reach out to Ticketmaster Fan Support for assistance. They can look into any technical issues on the back end.

Getting a Refund Instead of Exchanging Tickets

Rather than exchanging tickets for a different date or event, you can also request a refund from Ticketmaster in many cases. Refund eligibility follows similar criteria:

• Set by the event organizer
• Limited time window to request
• Not available for all ticket types

If refunds are permitted, you would follow the same process of selecting your order and applicable tickets. Then choose Refund instead of Exchange. Refunds are generally issued back to the original payment method.

Purchasing Ticket Insurance

To allow more flexibility, Ticketmaster also offers ticket insurance. This provides the option for exchanges and refunds in more scenarios. There is an additional fee during checkout to add insurance.

Options like Ticketmaster’s “Worry-Free Tickets” insurance provide assurance if:

• You cannot attend the event for a covered reason
• You change your mind leading up to the event
• Extra assurance even for non-refundable tickets

Insurance policies have their own terms as well, so read carefully when purchasing. But they can be worthwhile for high-value events and tickets if exchanges or refunds would otherwise be prohibited.

Can You Exchange Ticketmaster Tickets? – The Key Takeaways

Exchanging Ticketmaster tickets for another date, time, or event is sometimes permitted, but not guaranteed. The key considerations are:

• Each event creator sets their own exchange policy
• Exchanges can only be requested prior to the event date
• Specialty tickets may be non-exchangeable
• Follow the online exchange process before any deadlines
• Ticket insurance provides more flexibility

Always check your specific ticket and event details first. Under the right circumstances, Ticketmaster does allow exchanging tickets for a more convenient date or event. But purchasing ticket insurance can give peace of mind if plans change.