Ticketmaster has specific policies in place regarding refunds for cancelled events. Here are quick answers to some common questions about Ticketmaster refunds for cancelled shows or events:
Does Ticketmaster automatically refund cancelled events?
No, Ticketmaster does not automatically issue refunds when an event is cancelled. The event organizer is responsible for determining the refund policy for their event. Ticketmaster facilitates the refund process according to the organizer’s policy.
How do I get a refund from Ticketmaster for a cancelled event?
If an event is cancelled, Ticketmaster will email the ticket purchasers with information on how to obtain a refund. This will include instructions on how to request a refund online or by phone. The event organizer determines the refund policy, including the timeframe for refunds and whether the refund is cash or credit.
What is Ticketmaster’s policy on refunds for postponed or rescheduled events?
If an event is postponed or rescheduled, Ticketmaster does not offer automatic refunds. The tickets for the original event date will typically be valid for the new event date. If ticket holders are unable to attend the new date, they can resell their tickets through Ticketmaster’s verified resale markets. Refunds may be available at the organizer’s discretion.
Does Ticketmaster charge a fee for refunds?
Yes, Ticketmaster typically charges a service fee for refunds. The fee amount depends on when and how the refund is issued. For example, refunds issued to the original payment method within 60 days of the event may have a lower fee than refunds issued by check after 60 days.
How long does it take to get a Ticketmaster refund?
Refund processing times vary depending on the organizer’s policies and the payment method. Credit card and debit card purchases are typically refunded within 30 days. Refunds issued by check can take 4-6 weeks to process. International orders may take longer.
Can I get a refund for ticket insurance or processing fees?
No, Ticketmaster does not refund insurance or processing fees if an event is cancelled. The ticket price is generally the only refundable amount.
What if my event was rescheduled then cancelled?
If your event was initially postponed/rescheduled before ultimately being cancelled, refund availability depends on the organizer’s policy. In most cases, refunds will be issued and the original tickets will not be valid for future dates. Check your email for refund instructions from Ticketmaster.
What options do I have if my refund is denied?
If Ticketmaster denies your refund request, your options may be limited. You can attempt to resell your tickets through Ticketmaster’s verified resale platforms. If the denial seems to contradict the organizer’s stated policy, you can escalate the issue by contacting Ticketmaster customer service.
Can I get a refund for cancelled events bought from a reseller?
If you purchased tickets through an unauthorized third party or ticket broker, you will need to seek a refund directly from them. Ticketmaster is only obligated to refund the original ticket purchaser. Buying from an unauthorized reseller has risks, including issues obtaining refunds.
Does Ticketmaster offer refunds for postponed sporting events?
Sporting events can have unique reschedulingcomplexities. In general, Ticketmaster willfollow the event organizer or league policy onrefunds for postponed games. Most leaguesand teams do not offer refunds for postponedgames and instead honor tickets for the newdate. Check directly with the team box office ifyou have questions on their specific refundpolicy for postponed games.
Conclusion
The key takeaways are:
- Refund availability for cancelled Ticketmaster events depends on the organizer’s policy.
- Ticketmaster does not automatically refund tickets to cancelled events.
- Refunds are typically issued to the original payment method within 30 days of approval.
- Fees for tickets insurance and processing are not refunded.
- Options are limited if Ticketmaster denies a refund request.
- Purchasing from an unauthorized ticket reseller carries risks, including no refund guarantee.
Ticketmaster aims to provide clear communication around event cancellations and fulfilling refunds when approved. Make sure to closely review the details in any email notifications from Ticketmaster about cancelled events and refund next steps. Contact their customer service for help resolving any refund issues.
Refund Timeframes
Here are some example Ticketmaster refund timeframes for cancelled events:
Refund Method | Estimated Processing Time |
---|---|
Credit/debit card | 7-30 days |
Gift cards | 30 days |
Checks by mail | 4-6 weeks |
Processing times may vary depending on factors like order volume. International orders may take longer to process.
Comparing Ticketmaster Refund Policies by Event Type
Refund availability can also vary depending on the type of event. Here is a comparison of Ticketmaster refund policies for different event categories:
Event Type | Refund Policy |
---|---|
Concerts | Refunds issued if event cancelled. Original tickets invalid for rescheduled dates. |
Theater | Refunds for cancelled shows only. Tickets typically valid for new dates. |
Comedy Shows | Credit vouchers may be issued instead of refunds. Check event listing. |
Sporting Events | No refunds for postponed games. Tickets valid for makeup dates. |
These are general guidelines, with specific refund policies set by each event organizer. Carefully review all communications from Ticketmaster for event-specific refund information.
How to Minimize the Need for Refunds
There are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of needing a refund for cancelled events:
- Only buy tickets from official sources like Ticketmaster to ensure validity.
- Avoid resellers who may not guarantee refunds.
- Purchase refundable airline tickets and hotel rates in case you cannot attend a rescheduled date.
- Get ticket insurance to protect your purchase (check coverage details carefully).
Being an informed consumer is the best way to minimize refund issues. Make sure you understand and agree to the stated refund policies before purchasing tickets.
Ticketmaster Cancellation Scenarios
Here are some examples of Ticketmaster cancellation and refund scenarios:
Concert Cancelled Due to Bad Weather
If an outdoor concert is cancelled due to weather conditions before it begins, Ticketmaster will issue refunds per the organizer’s policy. The original event tickets will not be valid for future dates.
Sporting Event Postponed Due to Player Strike
If a sporting event is postponed due to a player strike, refunds are generally not issued. Tickets typically remain valid and will be honored whenever the game is rescheduled and played.
Theater Show Cancelled Due to Cast Illness
For a cancelled theater performance due to cast illness, the tickets will normally be valid for a future rescheduled date. If no alternate date is offered, then refunds may be issued to the original ticket purchaser.
Festival Cancelled Entirely with No Plans to Reschedule
If a festival or similar event is outright cancelled with no plans to reschedule, Ticketmaster will facilitate refunds back to the original payment method used to purchase. There may be no option to use the tickets for a future event.
Always refer to the specific event listing on Ticketmaster for the current status and official refund policy details. Things can change rapidly in times of uncertainty.
Getting Help from Ticketmaster Customer Service
If you have any difficulties obtaining a refund for a cancelled event through Ticketmaster, here are some tips for connecting with their customer service for assistance:
- Start by looking for an event-specific support number listed on your ticket email receipt.
- Contact general customer service at +1 800-653-8000 (toll free in North America).
- Contact Ticketmaster via their online contact form.
- Reach out on social media by tweeting @Ticketmaster for a response.
- If needed, submit a formal complaint to Ticketmaster and the Better Business Bureau.
Keep records of all communication and transaction details when disputing a denied refund request. Politely escalate the issue until it is properly resolved per stated policy.
Is Ticketmaster Required to Issue Refunds for Service Fees?
No, Ticketmaster is not legally required to refund service fees if an event is cancelled. Their terms and conditions specify that only the base ticket price is refundable. Fees for services like ticket insurance and order processing are retained by Ticketmaster even when refunding cancelled events.
Some event organizers may choose to refund the full amount paid, including fees, but that is not standard policy. Consumers should not purchase tickets expecting to get service fees back if the show cannot go on.
Class action lawsuits have occasionally been filed seeking refunds of Ticketmaster fees. But courts have generally ruled their detailed fee disclosures and disclaimers protect them from refund liability. It remains an uphill legal battle to recoup those non-refundable processing costs.
Key Facts on Ticketmaster Service Fees
- Fees can make up 20-30% of the overall ticket price.
- Ticketmaster keeps all processing and service fees when refunding cancelled events.
- Their terms and conditions outline the non-refundable nature of the fees.
- Lawsuits seeking fee refunds rarely succeed due to the disclosures.
- Consumers should be aware that fees are always non-refundable before purchasing.
Top Tips for Navigating Ticketmaster Refunds
Here are some summarized tips for getting Ticketmaster refunds for cancelled or postponed events:
- Review the refund policy before buying tickets so you know what to expect if cancelled.
- Only buy from authorized sellers to ensure refund eligibility.
- Keep a record of your Ticketmaster order confirmation and receipt.
- Check email frequently for event status updates and refund information.
- Promptly submit refund requests through the provided process.
- Don’t expect fees for processing or insurance to be refunded.
- Follow up regularly on pending refunds until received.
- Contact customer service if you encounter refund issues or denials.
- Escalate unresolved matters to Ticketmaster management if needed.
- Consult event listings for specific administrative contacts.
Careful review of policies, swift action on notifications, and persistence resolving problems are key to getting Ticketmaster refunds. With millions of customers, delays and mistakes can happen. Stay engaged until your refund is correctly processed.
The Bottom Line
Ticketmaster refunds for cancelled or postponed events are dependent on each organizer’s policies. Refunds are not issued automatically. Timely communication and compliance with provided procedures is important. Service and processing fees are generally non-refundable, which should be factored into purchase decisions. Persistence and escalation to management may be required if refunds are wrongly denied or excessively delayed. With open communication and concerted follow-up, customers can get Ticketmaster refunds processed properly despite the inherent challenges of mass event cancellations.