Cancelling a ressie on SWA - when are funds available?

[ms.ojo]

OK, i was cruising the SWA site last night checking out where/how I would navigate to cancel/change my tickets should a better fare come along. I discovered that it says "due to processing time, funds may not be available right away for rebooking" or something like that. Are we talking minutes....or hours???? Anyone have experience?

I know worst case if I cancel, and the funds aren't available for my immediate rebooking at a lower rate...than I will just have a credit I'll use next year. But best case, I'd like to cancel, and book the new flights now w/ that credit, so the amt I have hanging around for a year is minimal.

Thanks.

 

[eeyoreiscool]

We did this once and I canceled one ticket and the funds were there immediately for me to book the other one. I figure they are trying to protect themselves in case they are having computer troubles at the time.

 

[ms.ojo]

We did this once and I canceled one ticket and the funds were there immediately for me to book the other one. I figure they are trying to protect themselves in case they are having computer troubles at the time.

Thank you. That's what I was hoping was the case.

 

[Lewisc]

Last time I did the funds were available in less time than it took to go from one browser window to another. Seconds. I had two browser windows open, waited until I needed to pay for my new reservation, went to the other window to cancel my reservation and the funds were immediately available to pay for my new reservation. I was going from a regular fare to a DING fare. I think, but I'm not sure, that you can just change your existing reservation and that will immediatly use the funds from your existing reservation.

I think there is an issue if you do it late at night. I think, but I'm not sure, there is a time in which the database is getting updated and there is a delay.

 

[Stewy]

We have a slow internet connection at home so I worry about timing and having too many windows open. I just call Southwest and they cancel it for me and I go rebook it as soon as they say they are available - I have the whole page filled out and just go to the view funds part of the page. HTH

 

[ms.ojo]

Thanks everyone. Very helpful info'n.