We had to cancel a flight. Got a credit for future flight for United- question on how it works? GREAT UPDATE!

[Farro]

Sadly we had to postpone our May 2020 trip to May 2021. Never had to do this before but we are just having a run of spectacularly bad luck.

We already bought the plane tickets. So I cancelled and didn't know we'd get a credit.

I spoke to someone at United, but honestly I don't think they understood my question and I read the policy but it's not clear:

The credit is good until July 28, 2020 - does that mean we have to book by that date or fly by that date? The lady on the phone said book by, but again, she didn't seem too sure.
If it's book by, then I would make sure to book our May 2021 flights by that date. (i know about change fees, etc.)

edited to add - I'm checking on here to see if anyone has experience with this type of situation and United.

thanks!

 

[JimMIA]

Call them back and get clear guidance. What any of us here tells you has no bearing on United's policies -- and United's policies govern.

 

[Farro]

Call them back and get clear guidance. What any of us here tells you has no bearing on United's policies -- and United's policies govern.

I've already emailed them. I'm asking here to see if anyone has had experience with this.

 

[JimMIA]

When you get the answer, if you don't like it, call them. Sometimes they can make adjustments. I've had it both ways, but that was American, not United.

 

[DebbieB]

I believe it’s fly by date.

 

[Farro]

I believe it’s fly by date.

Bummer. We aren't going anywhere (flying at least) by that date.

Hopefully they email me back soon.

I guess when the time comes it won't hurt to try and use the credit.

 

[Searc]

Credits we've had to use on SW, Delta and American were all the fly-by date, not book by.

 

[Farro]

Looks like I can book by the credit expiration, but fly later! Yay! From United Customer Care:



Let me try to explain the rules to your ticket.

Your ticket is valid till July 28 2020. The ticket must be exchanged with your new travel dates prior to July 28, 2020.
Your travel may be later than July 28, 2020. Please note that any changes to your ticket may incur a change fee plus any difference in the fare, if applicable. Please contact our Reservations Department for assistance with your exchange to your new travel dates.

Thank you for being a MileagePlus member. We look forward to welcoming you onboard a future United flight.

 

[JimMIA]

YAY!

 

[Farro]

YAY!

I'm definitely keeping this email!!!