Quick Answer
The amount of time you have to request a refund on Ticketmaster depends on the type of event and ticket. Generally, you must request a refund before the event takes place. However, each event has its own specific refund policy which determines the deadline. Some key deadlines include:
- NFL games – Refund requests must be submitted 2 days prior to the event.
- MLB games – Refund requests must be submitted 72 hours prior to the first pitch.
- Concerts – Refund deadline is set by the artist/promoter. Usually 24-48 hours before the event.
- Theater shows – Refunds must be requested 7 days prior to the event.
So in summary, make sure to check the exact refund policy for your specific event. Submit your refund request before the deadline, which is generally 1-7 days before the event takes place.
Factors That Determine Refund Deadline
Several key factors determine how long you have to request a Ticketmaster refund:
Type of Event
Each category of event (sporting, concerts, theater, etc) tends to have different standard refund deadlines. Sporting events usually have the shortest window of just 48 hours. Concerts and theaters are typically 1 week before. The promoter or team sets policies.
Individual Event Policy
While categories have baseline policies, each specific event can set its own refund rules. Often the artist, sports team, or venue have mandates that override the general deadline. Always check your specific ticket.
Reason for Refund
If there is an extenuating circumstance, such as the event being postponed, canceled, or your inability to attend due to an accident, the standard deadlines may not apply. Refund exceptions can be made on a case by case basis.
Ticketmaster Delivery Method
Mobile tickets have different refund timing than hard stock tickets. Paperless tickets revert to being refundable sooner than mailed tickets.
Refund Deadlines for Major Event Categories
Here are the typical Ticketmaster refund deadlines for the most common event types:
NFL Football Games
- Refund requests must be submitted within 2 days of the event
- For Monday or Thursday games, request refunds by Saturday prior
- For Sunday games, request refunds by Friday prior
MLB Baseball Games
- Refunds must be requested at least 72 hours prior to first pitch
- Weekday games: Request by Monday for Thursday game
- Weekend games: Request by Wednesday for Saturday game
Concerts
- Deadline is set by artist/promoter, typically 24-48 hours prior
- Check event listing for the specific concert refund policy
Theater Shows
- Refunds must be requested 7 days before event
- Broadway shows have same 7 day policy
Getting an Exception to the Refund Deadline
While Ticketmaster refunds generally must be requested before the event date, exceptions can be made under special circumstances:
Event is Postponed or Canceled
If an event is indefinitely postponed or canceled altogether, you will typically have 30 days from the announcement to request your money back.
Medical Emergency
If you or someone in your party has a medical emergency arise that prevents you from attending, evidence can be provided to receive a refund exception.
Military Deployment
If you are in the armed forces and get deployed, refunds can be issued outside the normal policy. Documentation will be required.
Death in Family
Similar to medical emergencies, a death in the family leading up to an event will warrant a refund exception with proper evidence.
How to Request Your Ticketmaster Refund
To obtain your refund before the deadline, follow this process:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Confirm the specific refund policy for your tickets. Verify you are within the deadline based on event type.
Step 2: Submit Refund Request
If eligible, login to your Ticketmaster account online or via mobile app. Navigate to your Orders/Tickets and select Refund.
Step 3: Track Status
You will receive confirmation your refund request is being processed. The money will be returned to your original payment method.
Key Takeaways
The key points on Ticketmaster’s refund policy include:
- Deadlines vary by event category, typically 1-7 days before event
- Check your specific tickets, as events set individual policies
- Submit refund requests through your Ticketmaster account
- Exceptions made for cancellations, injuries, military duty
- Refund time varies – allow 7-10 days for credit card
Knowing the Ticketmaster refund rules for different events ensures you can get your money back if needed. Submit requests on time and to the proper place. Be aware of any special circumstances that qualify you for an exception to the standard deadline. Careful tracking of refund status makes sure you receive your reimbursement quickly and smoothly.