If you are planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and want to ensure that you receive a refund in the event of an unexpected change of plans or flight delays, then you must understand the policies surrounding Refunds issued by Southwest Airlines. Southwest Airlines has built a reputation for being very “customer-friendly.” Their policies are among the most flexible in the industry regarding cancelling flights without penalties and obtaining refunds. If you need to speak with someone immediately regarding your flight reservations or have any questions about your Reservation, please call Southwest Airlines Customer Service at 1-800-435-9792.

Throughout this Guide, we will discuss each of the components that go into Southwest Airlines Refund Policy, including Refundable Vs. Non-Refundable ticket, the 24 Hour cancellation policy, and How to Continue to Use Flight Credits.

24 Hour Risk-Free Cancellation Window

• For passengers who book flights with Southwest Airlines, a “24-hour cancellation policy” allows you to cancel a flight and receive a full refund through your original method of payment. 

• The cancellation must take place within the first 24 hours after the booking has been made, and the full refund will be given regardless of the type of fare you originally paid.

• For example, if you have a last-minute trip and book your flight, you may decide to cancel your reservation and book another flight because you found a better fare after checking around, or you may change your plans from what you had originally and no longer need to fly. 

• You would be able to easily cancel your flight and receive a full refund without having to wait any longer than 24 hours. (Note: Standard airline rules typically state that the 24-hour cancellation window will only apply if the flight is departing 7 days after the flight was booked.)

Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Fares

Southwest classifies its passenger tickets into multiple fare options. As of the year 2026, there are four types: Choice Extra (previously Business Select), Choice Preferred (previously Anytime), Choice (previously Wanna Get Away Plus), and Basic (previously Wanna Get Away).

• Refundable Fares (Choice Extra & Choice Preferred): Your original payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.) will fully refund these tickets.
• Non-Refundable Fares (Choice & Basic): No cash refund will be available for these tickets once purchased; the only option available upon cancellation is the issuance of either Flight Credits or Transferable Flight Credits, which can be used for a future ticket purchase.

Pro Tip: For you to remain eligible to receive your Fare Cost reimbursement, you must cancel any flight at least ten minutes before the scheduled Departure Time or else you risk losing your entire fare because of the “no-show” policy that applies.

Southwest Flight Credit and Transferable Flight Credit

The Southwest Airlines Refund Policy states that if you cannot obtain a Refund to the original method of payment, there are Travel Credits, which serve as an option for future Southwest Airlines airfare purchases. Southwest Travel Credits will automatically be provided when you cancel a fare that was purchased as “non-refundable”.

Generally, once Travel Credits have been provided, they will be good for 1 year.

When a fare is voluntarily downgraded from a Choice (formerly Wanna Get Away Plus) choice of fare, or the reservation is cancelled, you will receive a Transferable Flight Credit™. Transferable Flight Credits may only be used toward future flight purchases at the current time and will transfer between Rapid Rewards Members.

Flight Delays and/or Cancelled Flights

When Southwest Airlines cancels your flight or has a significant disruption (which is typically defined as being delayed for longer than 3 hours for all domestic flights and international flights being at least 6 hours), some changes would be in your favour about how you would proceed with obtaining a refund.

The policies that will be applied to passengers who experience disruptions are as follows:

• The airline will issue a full refund to the original payment method used for your trip, regardless of the fare type you paid (including non-refundable Basic fares).
• You will be reimbursed for the optional services that were purchased with that ticket (i.e., boarding, etc., pet fees, etc.).
• Once you submit a refund request, you will receive your money back within seven business days.

How to Request a Refund with Southwest Airlines

While you can get your refund quickly and securely online, there may be times when you need to speak with someone in order to get a proper refund.

1. Via Online window:

• Go to www.southwest.com, then click on “Manage Reservations.”
• Once there, enter your Confirmation Number and Name.
• Click “Cancel Flight”.
• You will have two options at this time: “Request a Refund” (if you purchased a refundable fare), or “Hold for Future Use” (if you want to keep the flight credit for use on a future flight).

2. By Phone

For more complex itineraries (e.g., Group Bookings, Companion Pass holders) and/or if you experience any technical problems, call 1-800-435-9792 to speak with a live representative of Southwest. They can help you with your issues, process your refund or change the type of credit to your account.

Refund Rules that You Should Know About

This document contains some important information about your options when cancelling flights:

Cancelling Tickets

If you have decided not to travel anymore with Southwest, cancel the ticket 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time to qualify for a refund or credit.

No-Shows

If you do not check in for your flight and do not cancel your reservation before the scheduled departure time, you will lose all rights to the value of your plane tickets.

Processing Time for Refunds

Refunds processed back to the original form of payment typically take approximately one (1) week or two (2) weeks after the date of cancellation.

Short Introduction to Southwest Airlines

Conclusion

Grasping the Southwest Airlines Refund Policy can alleviate stress—and save you money—particularly when unforeseen alterations to your travel arrangements occur. Southwest’s policy is recognized as one of the most accommodating in the industry, featuring no cancellation or change fees, a generous 24-hour full refund period, and adaptable travel credit alternatives. Always review your specific fare regulations, respond quickly when plans shift, and feel free to contact 1-800-435-9792 if you require tailored assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I receive a cash refund from Southwest Airlines?

Yes. If you bought a refundable fare or cancel within the 24-hour risk-free period, you can get a refund to your original payment method.

How long are travel credits valid?

Travel credits are generally valid for up to one year from the date of the original purchase or cancellation.

What is the “No Show” policy of Southwest Airlines?

If you do not cancel your flight at least 10 minutes before departure and do not board, your funds will be forfeited. For refundable fares, the money typically converts to a flight credit instead of being completely lost, but it is always advisable to cancel manually.