Ticketmaster is a large ticket sales and distribution company that sells tickets for various events worldwide. Many customers want to know what Ticketmaster’s cancellation and refund policies are in case they need to return or cancel a ticket. Specifically, a common question is whether Ticketmaster has a 24 hour cancellation policy that allows customers to cancel a ticket purchase within 24 hours for a full refund. This article will examine Ticketmaster’s official cancellation and refund policies and provide the answers on whether there is a 24 hour cancellation window or not.
Ticketmaster’s Cancellation Policy
Ticketmaster does not have a universal 24 hour cancellation or refund policy. Their cancellation policy can vary greatly depending on the event, venue, and ticket type purchased. Here are some key things to know about Ticketmaster’s cancellation policies:
Varies by Event
Each eventcreator or venue can set their own refund policy that Ticketmaster must enforce. So the ability to get a refund and the timing window available for a refund depend completely on the specific event and who is managing it. Some may provide full refunds, others none at all, and policies can differ for the same venue depending on the event.
Varies by Ticket Type
Ticketmaster tickets fall into three main categories – standard tickets, Platinum Tickets, and resale tickets purchased through Ticketmaster’s resale marketplace. Each ticket type has different cancellation and refund rules:
– Standard Tickets: Refund timing depends on event policy, but is generally 1-30 days before event.
– Platinum Tickets: No refunds, all sales final.
– Resale Tickets: Policy set by seller; usually no refunds.
Fees are Non-Refundable
Even if an event allows ticket refunds, Ticketmaster usually keeps their service and handling fees regardless. So at best, customers can get a refund on the base ticket price only.
Ticketmaster Refund Policies by Event Type
Some general scenarios when Ticketmaster tickets can be cancelled or refunded:
Sporting Events
| League | Refund Policy |
|---|---|
| NFL | Typically within 72 hours of purchase, but varies by stadium rules |
| NBA | Within 5 days of event, varies by arena |
| NHL | Typically no refunds |
| MLB | Typically no refunds |
– NFL – Typically refunds allowed within 72 hours of purchase, but policy varies by stadium.
– NBA – Within 5 days of event, but can vary a lot by arena.
– NHL and MLB – Typically no refunds allowed.
Concerts
– Refund timing varies by artist. Some allow 1-2 weeks before event, some none.
– Rescheduled shows generally allow refunds once new date is set if can’t attend.
Theater Events
– Broadway shows in NY typically allow refunds up to 24 hours before show.
– Other theater shows may allow within 72 hours of purchase.
– No fee refunds even when ticket is refunded.
Comedy Shows
– Typically have a no refund policy.
– Some clubs allow refunds 1-2 weeks out if can’t attend.
How to Get Refunds on Ticketmaster Tickets
If an event is refundable within Ticketmaster’s policy window, here is how to cancel tickets and get a refund:
Online Purchase
– Log in to your Ticketmaster account online
– Navigate to your Orders/Purchases
– Find the eligible order and click “Refund”
– Follow prompts to submit order cancellation
Mobile App Purchase
– Open your Ticketmaster app
– Go to your profile and order history
– Select the refundable order
– Choose option to cancel tickets and request refund
Phone Purchase
– Call Ticketmaster Customer Service at 1-800-653-8000
– Provide order number and refund request
– Process may require written cancellation request
Keep in mind that for most events, you will need to request the cancellation within 1-2 weeks before the event to be eligible for any refund at all. Each event has its own policy.
You can verify before purchasing tickets if an order is refundable – this policy should be visible during the purchase process. If uncertain, contact Ticketmaster Customer Service.
Getting Ticketmaster Refunds for Cancelled or Postponed Events
If an event is outright cancelled or postponed, Ticketmaster typically allows refunds for all ticket types, including non-refundable tickets.
However, the timing of when refunds are issued can vary:
Cancelled Events
– Refunds initiated within 30 days of cancellation notice in most cases.
– Refund method is usually original payment type.
Postponed Events
– Refunds not issued until new event date is set.
– If new date doesn’t work, can request refund once date is announced.
For high demand events, Ticketmaster may offer the option to use the ticket for the new rescheduled date instead of providing a refund.
If your event is cancelled or postponed, log into your Ticketmaster account to manage refund options when available. You can also call their support line at 1-800-653-8000.
Getting Refunds on Resale Tickets
If you purchased ticket resales through Ticketmaster’s resale marketplace, not directly from Ticketmaster itself, refunds and cancellations are handled differently.
In most cases for resold tickets, all sales are final and non-refundable. Ticketmaster acts only as the marketplace platform, not the ticket seller in resale scenarios.
However, if an event is cancelled or postponed, the original ticket buyer may be due a refund from the seller. As the ticket holder, reach out to the seller directly to request a refund if this occurs. Disputed refunds may need to be resolved between the buyer and seller or elevated to Ticketmaster to investigate.
Key Takeaways on Ticketmaster Refund Policies
Here are some key summary points on Ticketmaster’s refund and cancellation policies:
– There is no universal 24 hour cancellation policy. Timing varies greatly.
– Refund rules depend on the event, venue, league, and ticket type.
– Typically 1-30 days for standard tickets; no refunds for Platinum tickets.
– Fees are non-refundable even if ticket is refunded.
– Cancelled and postponed events generally allow refunds, but timing varies.
– Resale tickets have no refunds in most cases. Refund disputes must be resolved with seller.
– Check event listing during purchase to see if tickets are refundable and under what policy.
Conclusion
Ticketmaster does not offer any 24 hour cancellation or refund policy. Their policies vary widely depending on the specifics of the event, venue, performers involved. Some events provide zero ability to get ticket refunds, while others may allow 1-2 weeks or even 30 days depending on the situation. It is imperative to check the refund rules before purchasing tickets, as policies are inconsistent. If a ticket is refundable, make sure to request refunds within the specific window allowed for that event. For cancelled or postponed shows, fans need to wait for Ticketmaster to announce refund plans based on the new event details. The best way for buyers to protect themselves is to understand an event’s refund rules before ordering tickets, rather than assume any universal cancellation timeframe.
