Electronic Travel Certificate

Posted by Jim (Slidell, LA) on 07/02/24 03:54 PM

Hello

I have an airline Electronic Travel Certificate in the amount of $2,252 from a cancelled flight last year. I just realized that, even though it was paid using my United Explorer credit card, there is an expiration date of October 24 on it. I am taking my grandchildren on separate trips to Rome and Paris next year and can use the certificate then, but because of their schools Spring break dates and their father's work schedule, I don't think we can finalize the trips and book them before it expires. I talked with United and they have a no extension policy. Have any of you had this problem, and if so, what did you do to resolve it, or did you? Thanks.

Jim

Posted by Paul

Eastern Iowa, USA

07/02/24 04:05 PM

8077 posts

What is United's change policy? Is it possible to just take your best guess at dates (Spring Break dates should be set maybe by now, or shortly) and if need be, make changes as needed?

I though am speaking as a Delta customer, they eliminated change fees, so we have rebooked several times in the past. The only caveat is having to pay any fare differences.

Posted by raymonelee

Connecticut

07/02/24 04:40 PM

692 posts

If it is a travel certificate then according to United’s website it appears that you only need to book by a certain date not travel by a certain date. I would speak to a representative who may be more knowledgeable and possibly flexible.

“ When will my travel credits expire?
In most cases, travel credits expire one year after the date they were issued. The expiration date will be listed on the credit itself. What that date means for you differs based on what type of credit you have.

If you have a future flight credit, it’s a "travel by" date. This means your trip must begin before the expiration date listed on your credit.

If you have a travel certificate, it’s a "book by" date. This means you must book your flight before the expiration date.

Return trips booked with travel credits are subject to the rules for that ticket type. In general, return trips should be booked within one year of your trip’s start.”

Posted by Mardee

Duluth 🛶

07/02/24 05:18 PM

8039 posts

I agree with Paul. I would book your flight and get the dates as close as possible, but if you need to change them, then do so. As far as I know, most major airlines are not charging change fees, but even if they are, it would probably be worth it to save the $2000+ you would lose if it expired.