If you try to transfer tickets on Ticketmaster and get an error saying “Ticket transfer unavailable”, there are a few potential reasons why this may occur. Here are some of the most common causes and solutions for fixing the “Ticket transfer unavailable” error on Ticketmaster when trying to send tickets to someone else:
The event organizer has restricted transfers
Many major concerts, festivals, and sporting events that use Ticketmaster will disable the transfer option to prevent scalping or resale. This is done to try to keep tickets within a group of friends and family rather than being resold at inflated prices.
If the event organizer has prohibited transfers, there is unfortunately nothing you can do on your end. You will need to contact the event organizer or venue directly to see if an exception can be made. Otherwise, you will need to find someone else who can attend and transfer the tickets via Ticketmaster before the event.
Transfers are disabled close to the event date
Ticketmaster will usually cut off transfers 1-3 days prior to an event. This prevents last minute changes that could lead to issues at the venue. If you are trying to transfer tickets right before the event starts, you may get the “unavailable” error.
Check the transfer deadline for your specific event. If it has passed, you will unfortunately need to find another way to get the tickets to someone attending (e.g. print them and meet up). Planning ahead is key to avoid this issue.
Your ticket type does not allow transfers
Certain types of discount tickets or special promotions may prohibit transfers. For example, student and military discounts often cannot be transferred to someone else. If your ticket says “Discount – No Transfers” or something similar, you will not be able to send them electronically.
You will need to check the fine print on your order confirmation to see if your ticket type allows transfers. If not, your only option may be to sell them through an authorized resale platform and repurchase new tickets.
You already transferred the ticket
Tickets on Ticketmaster can only be transferred one time. If you already sent the ticket to someone else, you will be unable to transfer it again. The recipient would need to initiate any future transfers.
Before trying to transfer again, log into your Ticketmaster account and double check the transfer history. If it shows a previous successful transfer, you will need to coordinate with that person to send the tickets instead.
There was an error initiating the transfer
Sometimes you may run into a glitch or technical error when trying to transfer on Ticketmaster. Things like an account logout, page reload, or loss of internet connection when submitting the transfer could cause issues.
If you get the “unavailable” message right after a potential error, try logging out and back into your Ticketmaster account. Then attempt the transfer again. If it still does not work, you may need to contact Ticketmaster support for troubleshooting.
The recipient’s account is restricted
Ticket transfers require the recipient to have an eligible Ticketmaster account to accept the tickets. If their account is brand new, restricted, or not fully verified, they may be blocked from receiving transfers.
The recipient should log into their Ticketmaster account and check that everything is set up properly. Things like an unverified email, incomplete profile details, or past violations could cause restrictions. They may need to update their account or contact support for help.
How to troubleshoot “Ticket transfer unavailable”
If you are running into the “unavailable” transfer error on Ticketmaster, here are some steps to troubleshoot:
- Check if the event organizer has restricted transfers. This will prevent any transfers.
- Make sure you have not already transferred the tickets previously.
- Confirm the transfer deadline has not passed for the event.
- Look for restrictions on your specific ticket type that may prohibit transfers.
- Try logging out and back into your Ticketmaster account before retrying the transfer.
- Ask the recipient to verify their Ticketmaster account is fully set up and unrestricted.
- Try transferring on both mobile app and desktop site in case one has an error.
- If still stuck, reach out to Ticketmaster Fan Support for further troubleshooting assistance.
How to transfer tickets on Ticketmaster
If you are not getting the “unavailable” error, here is how you properly transfer tickets on Ticketmaster:
- Log into your Ticketmaster account on the website or mobile app.
- Go to “My Tickets” and find the event you want to transfer.
- Select the “Transfer Tickets” option or button.
- Enter the recipient’s email address or Ticketmaster account username.
- Type in a price (face value or $0 for free) and gift message if desired.
- Carefully review the transfer details and hit submit.
- The recipient will receive an email to accept the ticket transfer.
Once tickets are transferred, the recipient will have the tickets in their account instead of you. Transfers are usually complete within hours but sometimes may take up to 48 hours to process.
Other options if transfers are unavailable
If you are completely unable to do an electronic ticket transfer on Ticketmaster, here are some alternative options:
- Print tickets – If allowed, you can print your tickets and physically hand them off to someone else.
- Sell tickets – List them on an authorized resale site like Ticketmaster Resale or NFL Ticket Exchange.
- Ticketmaster fan-to-fan – Ticketmaster’s safe transfer platform for sold out shows.
- Meet up in person – Arrange to meet and send them through the app in person.
- Venue will call – Some venues will allow tickets to be left under someone else’s name.
The best option depends on the event policies, your ticket type, and timing. If transfers are unavailable, explore authorized resale or fan exchange sites first before resorting to risky alternatives.
Why Ticketmaster restricts ticket transfers
There are a few key reasons why event organizers and Ticketmaster may prohibit electronic ticket transfers or resales:
- Prevent scalping – Restricting transfers limits the ability for scalpers to resell tickets.
- Crack down on fraud – Fraudulent purchases are more common on resale sites.
- Encourage fan attendance – Artists want their tickets being used by actual fans.
- Maintain price limits – Transfer limits help keep ticket prices reasonable.
- Void invalid tickets – Disable transfers on cancelled or fake ticket barcodes.
While restrictions can sometimes be inconvenient for legitimate fans, they are usually done with good intentions around limiting scalpers and fraud. There are still options like print-at-home tickets that allow you to send them to someone else.
Tips for transferring tickets successfully
Follow these tips when transferring tickets to avoid problems and ensure a smooth process:
- Initiate transfers as early as possible. Last minute transfers often fail.
- Only transfer to someone you know and trust.
- Avoid selling tickets above face value to comply with resale laws.
- Make sure the recipient has a fully verified Ticketmaster account.
- Confirm the tickets successfully transferred before an event.
- Print or screenshot the transfer confirmation as a record.
- If selling, only use authorized resale platforms approved by the event.
Planning ahead and carefully following the transfer steps will help minimize the chances of running into issues. Be very wary of any unofficial transfers or sales channels, as fraudulent tickets are commonplace.
Contact Ticketmaster for transfer help
If you still cannot resolve the “Ticket transfer unavailable” error or complete a transfer, reach out to Ticketmaster Fan Support for assistance. There are a few ways to contact them:
- Online – Request help through their online contact form.
- Phone – Call their fan support phone line at +1 800-653-8000.
- Twitter – Tweet your issue to @Ticketmaster.
- Chat – Initiate a live chat from your Ticketmaster account.
Make sure to have your order number, account details, and any other relevant information on hand when you contact them. Their support team can look into your specific event and tickets to troubleshoot further. They can enable transfers if the event organizers approve it.
Key takeaways
- Event organizers can restrict transfers to prevent scalping and resales.
- Only unused tickets can be transferred, and each one can only be sent once.
- Technical issues can sometimes cause a transfer error – retry after troubleshooting.
- If transfers don’t work, print tickets or use authorized resale platforms instead.
- Contact Ticketmaster support if you are unable to resolve a transfer issue.
