Getting a refund on event tickets can be tricky, especially when purchased through a major retailer like Live Nation. Live Nation is one of the largest ticket providers for concerts, sports games, and other live entertainment events. Their refund and exchange policies vary based on the event, but there are some general guidelines to follow if you need to get your money back.
Live Nation’s Refund Policies
Live Nation has different refund policies depending on the event. Here is a quick overview:
- For Live Nation owned and operated venues and festivals, you can typically get a refund within 30 days of purchase as long as the event has not been held yet.
- For third-party events, Live Nation’s refund policy matches whatever the organizer or venue has set. This can vary greatly.
- If an event is postponed, you will have 30 days from the new event date to request a refund if you can no longer attend.
- If an event is canceled altogether, you will typically be automatically issued a refund within 30 days.
- Exchanges may be allowed for a similar event instead of a refund, depending on the circumstances.
The best way to check an event’s specific refund rules is to look for the “purchasing terms” link near the ticket checkout page. This will explain the refund timeline and process.
How to Request a Refund from Live Nation
To start the refund process for an eligible Live Nation ticket purchase, there are a few options:
- Request the refund online through your Live Nation account. Log in and find the order, then select “Refund” and follow the steps.
- Call Live Nation’s customer service line at 1-800-653-8000. Explain you need a refund and they can look up your order.
- If the tickets were mobile tickets, go to the Live Nation Mobile App and request a refund through the app.
- For in-person box office purchases, you may need to go back to the box office with your receipt to request the refund.
Make sure to act before the refund deadline passes, and have your order number ready when you contact Live Nation. Allow up to 30 days for the refund to be processed back to your original method of payment.
Reasons Refunds May Be Denied
Even if a Live Nation event is still months away, there are some reasons you may not be able to get a refund, including:
- The refund request deadline has already passed.
- The tickets were resold through a secondary marketplace like StubHub that has different policies.
- The tickets were labeled “no refunds” or “all sales final.”
- The event was postponed or rescheduled, but not fully canceled.
Live Nation typically enforces the printed policies, so check all the fine print before purchasing. There are also some non-refundable fees like services charges that likely cannot be recouped.
Getting Refunds for Canceled or Postponed Events
If an event is outright canceled by the artist, venue, or Live Nation, refunds are generally automatically issued to the original purchaser within 30 days. No action is needed unless the refund is not received by the deadline.
For postponed or rescheduled events, you will likely have the option to use your existing tickets for the new date. If you can no longer attend, you can request a refund within 30 days of the announcement of the new date.
Keep an eye on your email for any notifications from Live Nation about cancelations and postponements. They will include the relevant refund instructions and policies.
Receiving Refunds for Tickets Bought from Resellers
If you purchased tickets from a reseller like StubHub, VividSeats, or SeatGeek instead of directly through Live Nation, the reseller’s refund policy applies, not Live Nation’s. Resellers often charge higher fees but also may offer more flexible refunds in some cases.
However, if an event is outright canceled with no rescheduling, you will typically be issued a refund automatically even if bought through a reseller. Read the reseller’s policies carefully when purchasing to understand your options.
Exchanging Tickets Instead of Refunding
For some events, Live Nation may give you the option to exchange your tickets for another event rather than get a full refund. This is generally only for postponed or rescheduled events, not cancelations.
If you prefer to attend a different concert or show instead, exchanging can help avoid some fees and waiting for refund processing. Check with the Live Nation customer service team to see if an exchange is allowed.
Tips for Increasing Chances of a Refund
To maximize your chances of getting a refund approved by Live Nation, keep these tips in mind:
- Request the refund as soon as possible, well before any deadlines pass.
- Be familiar with the specific event’s refund policy before buying tickets.
- Only buy from official sources like Live Nation directly, not third-party resellers.
- If reselling tickets yourself, make refund policies clear to buyers upfront.
- Double check the details before purchasing – dates, venues, seating, etc.
While Live Nation typically adheres to posted policies, if you request early enough they may sometimes make exceptions in unique extenuating circumstances. It never hurts to ask politely.
Alternative Options If Refunds Are Denied
If you are past the refund deadline or Live Nation will not approve a refund request, there are still some options:
- Sell or gift the tickets through Live Nation’s official resale marketplace.
- Give the tickets to friends or family who can attend.
- Donate the tickets to a local charity or non-profit organization.
- See if the artist or team is offering any exchanges or rain checks.
- Dispute the charges with your credit card company if all else fails.
Even if you cannot get your money back, the tickets can hopefully still go to good use.
Conclusion
Live Nation provides tickets to millions of events each year, so it’s important to understand their refund policies before purchasing. While they do not offer refunds for all situations, in general if an event is canceled or you need to return tickets early enough, your chances are decent for getting your money back.
Be an informed consumer by always carefully reading the refund terms before checkout, and act fast if you need a refund. With preparation and prompt action, you can hopefully either enjoy the event or get your ticket costs returned if plans change.