How To Use Flight Credit On United

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Introduction

So, you have flight credit on United Airlines and you’re wondering how to put it to good use? Look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through the different ways you can use your flight credit to make the most out of your travel experience with United.

Flight credit is a valuable asset that can be applied towards the purchase of flights, upgrades, and additional services. Whether you received flight credit due to a cancelled flight, a voluntary change of plans, or any other reason, United Airlines makes it easy for you to utilize this credit towards future travel.

In the following sections, we’ll walk you through the process of checking your flight credit balance, applying it to a new booking, using it for upgrades or additional services, transferring it to another passenger, extending its expiration date, and even cancelling and reusing it if necessary. We’ll also address some frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the information you need.

So, let’s dive in and discover the various ways to make the most of your flight credit on United Airlines!

Understanding Flight Credit

Before we delve into how to use your flight credit, let’s first understand what flight credit actually is. Flight credit is like a virtual currency that United Airlines provides to passengers who have experienced flight disruptions or made changes to their travel plans.

When you cancel a flight or make changes to your itinerary, instead of receiving a refund in cash, United Airlines may issue you with flight credit. This flight credit can then be used towards the purchase of future flights, upgrades, or additional services.

It’s important to note that flight credit is typically non-transferable and can only be used by the passenger named on the original ticket. Additionally, flight credit usually has an expiration date, so it’s essential to be aware of the validity period in order to make the best use of your credit.

Flight credit is often provided as a compensation method for inconveniences caused by flight delays, cancellations, or schedule changes, giving you the flexibility and opportunity to plan your future travels with United Airlines.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what flight credit is, let’s move on to the next section, where we’ll guide you through the process of checking your flight credit balance with United Airlines.

Checking Your Flight Credit

Keeping track of your flight credit balance is essential to ensure you make the most of it. Luckily, United Airlines provides an easy and convenient way to check your flight credit balance.

To check your flight credit, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the United Airlines website or open the mobile app.
2. Log in to your MileagePlus account or enter your confirmation number and last name.
3. Navigate to the “My Account” or “My Trips” section.
4. Look for the option to view your flight credit balance. It may be labeled as “Flight Credit” or “E-Certificate.”
5. Click or tap on the relevant option to see your available flight credit.

Once you have accessed your flight credit balance, you will be able to see the total amount of credit available and its expiration date. This information is crucial for planning your future travels and utilizing your flight credit before it expires.

If you encounter any difficulties or have questions about your flight credit balance, United Airlines customer service representatives are available to assist you. You can reach out to them via phone, email, or the live chat feature on their website or mobile app.

Now that you know how to check your flight credit balance, let’s move on to the next section, where we’ll explore how to apply your flight credit to a new booking with United Airlines.

Applying Flight Credit to a United Booking

Once you have checked your flight credit balance, it’s time to put it to good use by applying it to a new booking with United Airlines. Follow these steps to apply your flight credit:

1. Visit the United Airlines website or open the mobile app.
2. Log in to your MileagePlus account or enter your booking details.
3. Search for flights based on your desired travel dates and destinations.
4. Once you have selected your desired flight, proceed to the payment page.
5. Look for the option to apply your flight credit. It may be labeled as “Apply E-Certificate” or “Use Flight Credit.”
6. Enter the necessary information or select the flight credit you wish to apply.
7. Review the final payment details, and if the flight credit covers the full amount, simply click or tap to complete the booking.
8. If the flight credit does not cover the full amount, you will need to provide an additional payment method to cover the remaining balance.

Once you have successfully applied your flight credit, you will receive a confirmation email with the details of your booking and the deduction of the flight credit from your balance.

It’s worth mentioning that flight credits are usually non-refundable and cannot be used to purchase non-flight related items such as hotels or car rentals. They are specifically designated for flight-related expenses.

Now that you know how to apply your flight credit to a United Airlines booking, let’s explore how you can use it for upgrades or additional services.

Using Flight Credit for Upgrades or Additional Services

Flight credit isn’t limited to just booking flights. United Airlines allows you to use your flight credit to enhance your travel experience by applying it towards upgrades or additional services. Here’s how:

1. Once you have selected and booked your flight, visit the United Airlines website or open the mobile app.
2. Log in to your MileagePlus account or enter your booking details.
3. Navigate to the “Manage Reservations” or “My Trips” section.
4. Find the specific flight you want to upgrade or add services to.
5. Look for the option to use your flight credit towards upgrades or additional services.
6. Select the desired upgrade or service, such as extra legroom seats, priority boarding, or access to United Club lounges.
7. Follow the prompts to complete the upgrade or service purchase using your flight credit.

By utilizing your flight credit for upgrades or additional services, you can enhance your travel experience without spending extra money. It’s a great way to enjoy added comfort and convenience during your journey.

It’s important to note that upgrade availability and additional service options may vary depending on the specific flight, route, and fare class. Some services may only be available on certain flights or for specific passengers, such as MileagePlus Premier members.

Now that you know how to use your flight credit for upgrades and additional services, let’s explore how to transfer your flight credit to another passenger.

Transferring Flight Credit to Another Passenger

While flight credit is typically non-transferable, United Airlines does provide an option to transfer your flight credit to another passenger in certain circumstances. Here’s what you need to know about transferring flight credit:

1. Eligibility: Flight credit can only be transferred to another passenger if the original ticket holder is unable to use it due to unforeseen circumstances, such as an illness or schedule conflict. The transfer is generally not allowed for voluntary changes of plans.

2. Contact Customer Service: To initiate the transfer, you will need to contact United Airlines customer service. Explain your situation and provide any necessary documentation or proof of the circumstances preventing you from using the flight credit.

3. Transfer Processing: United Airlines will review your request and, if approved, facilitate the transfer of the flight credit to the designated individual. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of times a flight credit can be transferred and the timeline within which the transfer must occur.

4. Name and Ticket Requirements: The transferred flight credit will typically be issued in the name of the new passenger, and they will need to use it towards a booking in their name. The transferred flight credit cannot be split between multiple bookings.

5. Expiration Dates: It’s important to be aware that transferred flight credit may retain the same expiration date as the original credit, so the new passenger will need to use it before it expires.

Transferring your flight credit to another passenger can be a helpful option when unforeseen circumstances prevent you from utilizing the credit yourself. However, it’s important to note that United Airlines’ policies regarding flight credit transfers may change, so it’s always best to contact customer service for the most up-to-date information and guidance.

Now that you know how to transfer flight credit, let’s explore how you can extend the expiration date of your flight credit.

Extending the Expiration Date of Flight Credit

Flight credit typically comes with an expiration date, and it’s important to be aware of this date to ensure you can use it before it expires. However, in certain situations, United Airlines offers options to extend the expiration date of your flight credit. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Check the Expiration Date: Start by checking the expiration date of your flight credit. You can find this information by logging into your MileagePlus account or reviewing the email or notification that provided you with the flight credit details.

2. Request an Extension: If you’re unable to use your flight credit before the expiration date, you can contact United Airlines customer service and explain your situation. They may consider granting you an extension based on the circumstances.

3. Validity Extension Fee: Depending on the circumstances and the type of ticket or fare class, United Airlines may require you to pay a fee to extend the validity of your flight credit. The fee amount and the length of the extension granted will vary.

4. Book a New Flight: In some cases, to extend the expiration date of your flight credit, you may need to book a new flight before the original credit expires. This shows your intent to use the credit and allows United Airlines to extend its validity accordingly.

5. Utilize the Extended Credit: Once your flight credit expiration date has been extended, make sure to use it within the new timeframe. Remember to follow the necessary steps we discussed earlier to apply your flight credit to a booking or use it for upgrades or additional services.

It’s important to note that the availability of expiration date extensions, as well as any associated fees, may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the policies of United Airlines. Therefore, it’s best to contact customer service directly to inquire about potential extensions and fees applicable to your flight credit.

Now that you know how to extend the expiration date of your flight credit, let’s explore what to do if you need to cancel your booking and reuse your flight credit.

Cancelling and Reusing Flight Credit

If your plans change and you need to cancel your booking, United Airlines provides options for cancelling and reusing your flight credit. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Canceling your Booking: If you need to cancel your flight, visit the United Airlines website or contact customer service to initiate the cancellation process. Keep in mind that cancellation fees may apply depending on the type of ticket or fare class you booked.

2. Reusing Flight Credit: When you cancel your booking, United Airlines will typically issue a new flight credit in the amount of the canceled booking, minus any applicable fees. This flight credit can then be applied to a new booking within the validity period.

3. Terms and Conditions: The terms and conditions of your original flight credit will still apply to the newly issued flight credit. This includes any expiration dates, transferability rules, and limitations on how the credit can be used.

4. Applying the Reissued Flight Credit: To use the reissued flight credit, follow the steps we discussed earlier for applying flight credit to a United booking. Log in to your MileagePlus account or enter your booking details, search for the desired flight, and apply the flight credit at the payment stage.

It’s important to note that the value of the flight credit, including any fees or penalties associated with the cancellation, will be determined based on the fare rules and terms of your original booking. Therefore, the amount of flight credit you receive for a cancellation may vary.

Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware of any restrictions or limitations that may apply when reusing flight credit. For example, certain promotional or discounted fares may have specific rules regarding the use of flight credit.

If you have any questions or need assistance with canceling your booking and reusing your flight credit, don’t hesitate to contact United Airlines customer service. They will be able to provide you with the information and guidance you need to navigate the process.

Now that you know how to cancel your booking and reuse your flight credit, let’s address some frequently asked questions about United Airlines flight credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if I don’t use my flight credit before it expires?

If you don’t use your flight credit before the expiration date, the credit will become invalid and cannot be used for future bookings.

2. Can I combine multiple flight credits for one booking?

Generally, you cannot combine multiple flight credits for a single booking. Each credit is typically associated with a specific booking or cancellation and can only be used individually.

3. Can I use my flight credit for someone else’s booking?

Flight credit is usually non-transferable and can only be used by the passenger named on the original ticket. However, in certain circumstances, you may be able to transfer the flight credit to another passenger, as we discussed earlier.

4. Can I use my flight credit for upgrades or additional services?

Yes, you can often use your flight credit to upgrade your seat or add additional services such as extra legroom seats, priority boarding, or access to United Club lounges. The availability of upgrades and services may vary depending on the flight and fare class.

5. Can I get a refund for my flight credit?

Flight credit is typically non-refundable and can only be used towards future bookings, upgrades, or additional services. Refunds in cash are usually not provided for flight credit unless required by applicable laws or regulations.

6. Can I use my flight credit to book flights on partner airlines?

The ability to use your flight credit on partner airlines may vary. It’s best to check with United Airlines or review the terms and conditions of your flight credit to understand which airlines the credit can be used with.

7. Can I use my flight credit for international flights?

Yes, you can generally use your flight credit for both domestic and international flights with United Airlines. However, certain restrictions or additional fees may apply to international bookings.

8. How long does it take for my flight credit to appear after a cancellation?

Typically, the flight credit will appear in your account shortly after the cancellation is processed. However, it may take a few business days for the credit to reflect in your MileagePlus account or be available for use.

For any further questions or clarification regarding your flight credit, it’s recommended to contact United Airlines customer service directly. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information based on your specific situation.

Now that you have a better understanding of using flight credit on United Airlines, let’s wrap up this article.

Conclusion

Flight credit on United Airlines is a valuable asset that can be used towards future bookings, upgrades, and additional services. By understanding how to navigate the process of checking your flight credit balance, applying it to a new booking, utilizing it for upgrades or services, transferring it to another passenger, extending its expiration date, and even cancelling and reusing it, you can make the most of your travel experience.

Remember to regularly check your flight credit balance through the United Airlines website or mobile app, and keep track of its expiration date to ensure you use it before it expires. If needed, you may have the option to transfer the flight credit to another passenger or extend its validity, depending on the circumstances and the policies of United Airlines.

Additionally, consider using your flight credit not only for booking flights but also for enhancing your travel experience through upgrades or additional services. This allows you to enjoy added comfort and convenience during your journey.

If you find yourself needing to cancel your booking, rest assured that your flight credit can be reissued for future use. Simply contact United Airlines customer service to initiate the cancellation process and learn about any applicable fees or penalties.

Finally, remember to reach out to United Airlines customer service for any questions or clarification on using your flight credit. Their representatives are there to assist you and provide the most up-to-date information based on your specific circumstances.

Now, armed with the knowledge of how to effectively use your flight credit on United Airlines, you can confidently plan your future travels and make the most of your flight credit benefits. Happy travels!