The key to buying tickets on Ticketmaster is to be prepared and act fast when tickets go on sale. Have an account created ahead of time, know when tickets go on sale, and use shortcuts like presales and verified fan programs when possible. Using mobile apps can make the ticket buying process faster too. Patience and persistence are important, as high demand events will sell out quickly.
Create a Ticketmaster Account
Having a Ticketmaster account ahead of time makes the ticket buying process faster. You can save payment info and shipping addresses to check out quicker. Creating an account is free on both desktop and mobile app.
On desktop, visit ticketmaster.com and click “Sign In” in the top right. Then click “Sign Up” and fill out the form with your name, email, password, and zip code. Tick the box to agree to terms of use.
In the mobile app, download the Ticketmaster app and tap “Sign Up” instead of “Sign In.” Enter your email, password, and zip code to create an account.
Enable Notifications for Presales
Many events have presales before the general on-sale date that give fans early access to tickets. Turn on notifications in your Ticketmaster account settings to get alerts about presales for shows you might want to attend.
On desktop, click your name in the top right and go to Settings. Select “Event Notifications” and turn alerts on for desired artists and events. Get emails when presales are announced.
In the mobile app, go to More > Settings > Notification Preferences. Toggle alerts on for favorite teams, artists, theaters, and events to be notified about presales.
Join Fan Clubs or Mailing Lists
Fan clubs and an artist’s mailing list often provide presale code access. Join email lists of bands, sports teams, theaters, or promoters putting on events you want tickets for. Presale passwords are typically sent out 1-3 days before the presale via email.
Go to the website or social media page of a performer or team. Look for links to join an email list or fan community. Provide your email address and preferences for notifications about presales and tour dates.
Use Presale Codes
Presale codes give early ticket access before the general on-sale. They are typically 4-8 digit alphanumeric codes. If you received a presale code by email or text, have it ready when tickets go on presale.
On desktop, select tickets and enter the presale code when prompted. Tickets unlocked by the code will appear. Select seats then check out.
In the mobile app, choose event > tickets and enter the presale code on the unlock screen. Then pick seats and purchase the tickets in your cart.
Get Tickets Through Verified Fan
For very popular events, Ticketmaster uses Verified Fan to make sure tickets get into the hands of real fans. It helps prevent scalpers and bots from buying tickets.
Sign up for Verified Fan when an event page says its required. Share some info about yourself as a fan. If selected for a presale, you’ll get a code to unlock tickets.
Use the Mobile App
For high demand events that sell out quickly, the Ticketmaster mobile app provides the fastest way to buy tickets. Save payment info ahead and login right before tickets go on sale.
Download the app on iOS or Android. Tap the magnifying glass to search events. Select the event > tickets and login if needed. As soon as tickets go on sale, pick seats then tap “Buy” quickly.
Have Payment Ready
Entering payment info slowly can make you lose tickets that sell out instantly. Save a credit card or PayPal on your Ticketmaster account so your info is ready for fast checkout.
On desktop, click your name > Payment options. Enter credit card or PayPal details and save. Your info will be ready at checkout.
On mobile, go to More > Settings > Payment methods. Add a credit/debit card or PayPal account. Select the saved method at checkout for speed.
Use Refresh Shortcuts
For sold out events, repeatedly refresh the Ticketmaster page to check for released holds or added inventory. Keyboard shortcuts and auto-refresh browser extensions can help.
On desktop, tap the F5 key to refresh manually. Or use extensions like Auto Refresh Plus to refresh automatically.
On mobile, pull down on the event page to refresh with new ticket availability. Useful if waiting in a ticket queue.
Try Ticketmaster Trade
Can’t get tickets the normal way? Use Ticketmaster’s official resale marketplace Ticketmaster Trade. Fans resell tickets they can’t use. Prices may be above face value.
On desktop or in the app, search for the event in Trade (under “Tickets”). Filter by price and location. Buy from a fan ticket resale listing.
Leverage Account Shortcuts
Ticketmaster allows you save shortcuts in your account for favorite teams, artists, or venues. This puts links right on your Ticketmaster dashboard for quick access.
On desktop, click “Add a Shortcut” on the sidebar. Search and save artists, teams, venues, or events you want shortcuts for.
On mobile, tap the ⋮ icon > Add a shortcut. Search and save shortcuts to your favorites for fast access.
Use the Ticketmaster Assistant
Ticketmaster Assistant provides personalized help finding events and tickets. Enable it in account settings for reminders on presales, price drops, and recommendations.
In desktop or mobile app, go to account settings > Ticketmaster Assistant. Toggle it on and connect your Spotify, leagues, and favorites.
Check Seating Charts Before Buying
Review the event’s seating chart closely before purchasing tickets. This ensures you get the location you want. Check views, distance from stage, and nearby amenities.
On desktop and mobile, click or tap “View from Seat” on the interactive seating chart. Use the zoom tools for close looks at potential seats.
Compare Shipping Options
Ticketmaster provides several delivery methods including mobile entry, print at home, mail, and will call. Compare options to choose what works best for your needs.
See details during checkout on delivery times and fees per method. For last minute purchases, mobile entry or print at home deliver immediately.
Look for Discounts
Ticketmaster offers special deals and discounts on select events. Student, military, senior, and other discounts may be available.
Check the event page, seating chart, or cart for discount eligibility. Provide requested ID verification if asked during the checkout process.
Split Payments Across Friends
If attending an event with friends, Ticketmaster lets you split the cost of tickets in your cart for easier payment.
During checkout, choose “Split payments.” Assign tickets to friends for purchase. Pay your portion while they pay theirs separately.
Keep Trying for Hot Events
For high demand events, all tickets may sell out right away. But don’t give up immediately. Cancellations and released holds can free up tickets later.
Check back often leading up to the event by searching again or using saved shortcuts. Have payment details handy to snap up tickets if available.
Set Price Alerts on Sold Out Events
If an event is sold out, you can get notified if ticket prices drop in Ticketmaster Trade. This could indicate more affordable resale tickets.
On desktop, click “Track ticket prices” on an event page. Enter your price range for price drop alerts.
On mobile, tap “Track Prices.” Choose a max price point to get notifications if prices hit your goal.
Avoid Scam Sites
Only buy from official sources like Ticketmaster.com and Ticketmaster Trade. Scam sites pretend to sell tickets but take your money. Purchase only from real fan resale markets.
Check site URLs for misspellings or extra words. See if contact info matches official Ticketmaster pages. Pay with a credit card for purchase protection.
Call Ticketmaster Customer Support
For additional ticket buying assistance from a person, call Ticketmaster’s customer service line. Have order numbers, account info, and event details ready when you call.
In the US and Canada, call 1-800-653-8000 for Ticketmaster support. International numbers vary by country. Wait on hold or get a call back.
Conclusion
Ticket buying on Ticketmaster takes planning and speed. Setup an account, join fan programs, utilize shortcuts, and have payment handy. Use presales when possible and keep trying if tickets sell out. With preparation and persistence, you can get tickets for your desired events.
