United Airlines cancellation fees depend on the type of ticket purchased, the route, and the timing of the cancellation. In recent years, United has eliminated many change and cancellation fees for certain types of tickets, especially for flights originating in the United States. However, not all tickets are treated the same, and fees may still apply under specific conditions.

For most standard nonrefundable tickets, United does not charge a cancellation fee for flights within the United States, or between the U.S. and Mexico, the Caribbean, or most international destinations. If you cancel a nonrefundable ticket, you won’t receive a refund to your original form of payment, but the value of the ticket becomes a flight credit. This credit can be used toward future travel within one year of the original issue date. However, if you booked a basic economy fare, different rules apply.

Basic Economy tickets are generally not eligible for changes or cancellations. These tickets are the most restrictive and are nonrefundable and non-changeable unless canceled within 24 hours of booking and the flight is at least seven days away. If a Basic Economy ticket is canceled after that period, no refund or credit is issued unless the passenger qualifies for an exception due to a significant schedule change or special circumstance.

If a passenger cancels a refundable ticket, there is no cancellation fee. The full value of the ticket is returned to the original form of payment. Refundable tickets are typically more expensive but provide more flexibility. Travelers holding these tickets can cancel at any time prior to departure and receive a full refund.

For award tickets booked using United MileagePlus miles, United does not charge a redeposit fee if the ticket is canceled before departure. The miles are returned to the member’s account. However, if the traveler is a no-show and does not cancel before departure, a redeposit fee of up to $125 may apply. Elite status members in the MileagePlus program may receive reduced or waived fees depending on their tier.

United also offers same-day cancellation or change options, but a fee may apply depending on your MileagePlus status. For general members and Premier Silver members, a same-day cancellation or same-day confirmed change may cost up to $75. Premier Gold members may pay $50, while Premier Platinum and Premier 1K members are often exempt from these fees.

In cases of no-shows for nonrefundable tickets, the value of the ticket is forfeited. For award tickets, a no-show results in both the loss of the ticket and a fee for redepositing miles unless waived due to elite status or specific conditions.

Overall, United has removed many traditional cancellation fees for standard tickets, especially for domestic and short-haul international travel, but restrictions remain for Basic Economy fares. Refundable fares allow full refunds with no penalties, and award tickets offer flexibility with advance cancellation. Travelers should always check the fare rules when booking, as terms vary by ticket type and route. Understanding United’s cancellation policies helps avoid unexpected charges and ensures that travel credits or refunds are handled properly.