Canceling a railway ticket can be a bit of a headache, especially when you’re not sure whether or not you’ll be receiving a refund. There are a lot of questions that come to mind: “Does cancellation of railway ticket get refunded?”, “If so, what is the refund policy?”, and “How long does it take for the refund to arrive?” These are all valid concerns for anyone who’s had to cancel their travel plans, and they can be frustrating to navigate on your own.
Thankfully, there are some key things to keep in mind when it comes to canceling your railway ticket. First and foremost, most railways offer refunds for canceled tickets – it’s just up to you to make sure you meet the necessary criteria. This usually entails canceling your ticket within a certain time frame, which varies depending on the railway’s policy. Additionally, you may need to pay a cancellation fee or forfeit a percentage of your ticket cost.
All of this might sound confusing, but have no fear – we’re here to break it down for you. In this article, we’ll be discussing all the ins and outs of railway ticket cancellation and refunds. From what to expect when canceling your ticket to how to expedite your refund, we’ll be covering everything you need to know to ensure a smooth cancellation process. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn everything there is to know about railway ticket refunds.
Refund policy for cancelled railway tickets
Travelling by train is one of the most convenient modes of transport for many people, whether it’s for daily commutes or long-distance journeys. However, there may be instances when you have to cancel your ticket due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, it’s important to understand the refund policy for cancelled railway tickets.
- The refund amount for a cancelled ticket may vary based on the cancellation period and the fare class of the ticket. If you cancel your ticket before the scheduled departure time, you’ll be eligible for a refund. However, a nominal cancellation charge may apply.
- If you cancel your ticket after the scheduled departure time, you won’t be eligible for any refund. In such cases, your ticket will be treated as a no-show.
- If there is a train delay or cancellation, you can claim a full refund on your ticket. However, you must submit a ticket deposit receipt (TDR) within a specified period, depending on the train’s departure time.
It’s important to note that the refund process may take some time, especially during peak travel seasons. Generally, it takes 3-7 working days to process the refund amount. If you haven’t received your refund after this period, you should contact the railway customer care helpline.
Here is a table that gives you an overview of the refund policy for cancelled railway tickets:
| Cancellation period | Cancellation charge | Refund amount |
|---|---|---|
| 48 hours before scheduled departure time | ₹ 60 for AC classes, ₹ 40 for sleeper class, and ₹ 30 for second class | Full fare minus the cancellation charge |
| Between 48 hours and 12 hours before scheduled departure time | 25% of the fare subject to a minimum of the cancellation charge | The refund amount is the fare paid minus the cancellation charge and the clerkage charge (if any) |
| Between 12 hours and 4 hours before scheduled departure time | 50% of the fare subject to a minimum of the cancellation charge | The refund amount is the fare paid minus the cancellation charge and the clerkage charge (if any) |
| Less than 4 hours before scheduled departure time | No refund | Treated as a no-show |
Understanding the refund policy for cancelled railway tickets can save you from any unnecessary hassles and help you get your money back in a timely manner.
Procedure for cancellation and refund of railway tickets
One of the biggest advantages of booking train tickets online is the convenience and flexibility that it offers when it comes to cancellations and refunds. Here’s a rundown of the entire process of cancelling and getting a refund for your Indian Railways ticket:
- Step 1: Open the official Indian Railways website and log in to your account
- Step 2: Go to the ‘Booked Tickets’ section and select the ticket that you want to cancel
- Step 3: Click on the ‘Cancel Ticket’ option and confirm the cancellation
- Step 4: Once the cancellation is confirmed, the refund amount will be calculated based on the time of cancellation and the type of ticket purchased
- Step 5: The refund amount will be credited back to your account within a few business days
It is important to note that the refund amount is subject to certain deductions and conditions. For example, a certain amount is deducted as a cancellation fee, which varies based on the time of cancellation and the class of ticket purchased.
The refund also depends on the type of ticket purchased – whether it is a confirmed ticket, RAC ticket, or waitlisted ticket – and the method of payment used for the booking. Additionally, cancellation rules for tickets purchased through IRCTC agents or other third-party websites may differ from those for tickets booked directly through the Indian Railways website or at a railway station.
It is essential to read and understand the cancellation and refund policies before booking your ticket to avoid any confusion or last-minute surprises. In case of any doubts or queries regarding the cancellation and refund process, the Indian Railways helpline or customer care service can be contacted for assistance.
Summary
| Important points to remember |
|---|
| 1. Indian Railways offers a convenient online cancellation and refund process |
| 2. To cancel a ticket, log in to your account, select the ticket to be cancelled, and confirm cancellation |
| 3. Refund amount depends on time of cancellation, type of ticket, and method of payment |
| 4. Cancellation fees and conditions apply |
| 5. Read and understand the cancellation and refund policies before booking |
By following the procedure outlined above and keeping these important points in mind, passengers can have a hassle-free experience when it comes to cancelling and refunding their Indian Railways tickets.
Terms and conditions for refund of cancelled railway tickets
Cancelling a railway ticket can be a hassle but the good news is that refunds are available for cancelled tickets. However, there are terms and conditions that apply to these refunds.
- Refunds for cancelled tickets can only be claimed up to a certain period of time before the train’s scheduled departure time. This period varies depending on the class of the ticket, the journey distance, and the type of train.
- The cancellation fee will be deducted from the amount refunded. The amount of this fee depends on the class of the ticket and the time of cancellation.
- Refunds are not available for partially-used tickets. The passenger must cancel the ticket before the scheduled departure time of the train.
It is important to note that these terms and conditions are subject to change and should be reviewed before cancelling a ticket.
In addition to these general terms and conditions, there are specific rules that apply to different types of tickets:
Season Ticket Refunds
Season ticket refunds are offered on the unused portion of the ticket. These refunds have certain conditions:
- The refund is only available if the ticket is surrendered within the validity period.
- A minimum charge of one month will be deducted.
- No refund will be given on monthly season tickets if they are surrendered more than 15 days after the date of expiry or the date of the last travel.
- A refund on quarterly and half-yearly season tickets will only be given if the ticket is surrendered within 15 days from the date of expiry or from the date of the last travel covered by the ticket.
Tatkal Ticket Refunds
Tatkal tickets are popular among travellers who need to book last-minute train tickets. However, there are certain rules that apply to the cancellation and refund of Tatkal tickets:
- No refund will be granted on cancellation of confirmed Tatkal tickets. Partial cancellation of Tatkal tickets is not allowed.
- If the train is delayed by more than 3 hours, the passenger can claim a full refund on the ticket.
- If a Tatkal ticket is cancelled, the refund will be credited back to the account used for booking the ticket online.
Waitlisted Ticket Refunds
Waitlisted tickets can be cancelled if they are not confirmed before the scheduled departure time of the train. The following rules apply to the cancellation of waitlisted tickets:
| Waitlist Position | Ticket Reservation Time | Cancellation Charge |
|---|---|---|
| WL 1 to WL 10 | Up to 30 minutes before scheduled departure | No cancellation charge |
| WL 1 to WL 10 | 30 minutes to 4 hours before scheduled departure | Rs.30 |
| WL 1 to WL 10 | 4 hours to 48 hours before scheduled departure | Rs.60 |
| WL 1 to WL 10 | More than 48 hours before scheduled departure | Rs.120 |
| WL 11 and above | Up to 30 minutes before scheduled departure | No cancellation charge |
| WL 11 and above | 30 minutes to 4 hours before scheduled departure | Rs.60 |
| WL 11 and above | 4 hours to 48 hours before scheduled departure | Rs.90 |
| WL 11 and above | More than 48 hours before scheduled departure | Rs.180 |
It is important to always check the terms and conditions that apply to the type of ticket you have before cancelling. Doing so will help you avoid any surprises or disappointment when claiming a refund.
Time limit for claiming refund of cancelled railway tickets
It is a common concern among travelers to know the time limit for claiming a refund of cancelled railway tickets. The Indian Railways have set rules and regulations regarding refunds on cancelled tickets, and it is essential to understand them to avoid any inconvenience or monetary loss.
- For tickets cancelled up to 48 hours before the scheduled departure of the train, a flat refund of the fare minus the clerkage charges is granted.
- For tickets cancelled between 48 hours and up to 12 hours before the scheduled departure of the train, 25% of the fare minus the clerkage charges are deducted.
- For tickets cancelled between 12 hours and up to 4 hours before the scheduled departure of the train, 50% of the fare minus the clerkage charges are deducted.
- No refund is granted for tickets cancelled within 4 hours before the scheduled departure of the train.
It is important to note that the refund process should be initiated within the stipulated time. If the refund claim is not lodged within the prescribed time limit, no refund will be issued, and the whole fare will be forfeited.
In the case of e-tickets, the refund is processed automatically and credited to the account from which the payment was made. However, for counter tickets, the ticket should be surrendered at the railway counter, and a TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt) must be obtained. The refund will then be processed within the prescribed time limit.
| Cancellation Time | Refund Amount |
|---|---|
| Up to 48 hours before the scheduled departure of the train | Flat refund of fare minus clerkage charges |
| Between 48 hours and up to 12 hours before the scheduled departure of the train | 25% of the fare minus clerkage charges |
| Between 12 hours and up to 4 hours before the scheduled departure of the train | 50% of the fare minus clerkage charges |
| Within 4 hours before the scheduled departure of the train | No refund granted |
Knowing the time limit for claiming refund of cancelled railway tickets is crucial for any traveler. It is advisable to cancel the ticket well in advance to avoid any loss of money. In case of any doubt or query, it is recommended to refer to the official website of Indian Railways or visit a railway counter.
Factors affecting the amount of refund for cancelled railway tickets
When it comes to cancelling a railway ticket, passengers often wonder how much refund they will receive. The amount of refund for cancelled railway tickets depends on various factors such as:
- Time of cancellation
- Type of ticket
- Class of travel
- Booking channel
- Train running status
Each factor plays a crucial role in determining the amount of refund that a passenger is entitled to. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:
Time of cancellation: The time at which a passenger cancels their ticket has a significant impact on the amount of refund. If a passenger cancels their ticket more than 48 hours before the scheduled departure time, they are entitled to a full refund. However, if cancellation is made 24 hours prior, then the cancellation charge is 25% of the total fare. For cancellations made within 24 hours of departure, the cancellation charge increases to 50% of the total fare.
Type of ticket: The type of ticket purchased also determines the amount of refund for cancelled railway tickets. Certain types of tickets like Tatkal and Premium Tatkal have more stringent cancellation policies as per Indian Railways. Passengers are advised to carefully check the refund rules before booking such tickets.
Class of travel: The class of travel chosen also plays a role in determining the refund amount. For instance, cancellation charges for First AC or Executive Class are higher than cancellation charges for Second Sleeper or Second Class.
Booking channel: The channel used for booking also determines the refund amount. If a railway ticket is booked via an agent or a third-party website, then the refund rules may differ from those for tickets booked directly from Indian Railways. Passengers are advised to refer to the refund rules available on the Indian Railways website for more information.
Train running status: If the train is cancelled or runs late by more than 3 hours, then a full refund is issued to passengers irrespective of the time or type of ticket. However, if the train is cancelled due to natural calamities, then passengers are required to submit relevant documents to claim a refund.
| Time of cancellation | Cancellation charge |
|---|---|
| More than 48 hours before scheduled departure | No cancellation charge |
| Between 24 and 48 hours before scheduled departure | 25% of total fare |
| Within 24 hours of scheduled departure | 50% of total fare |
It’s important for passengers to understand the refund rules before they book their tickets. This will help them make an informed decision while cancelling their tickets and avoid any confusion or disappointment regarding the refund amount.
Refund mechanism for cancelled railway tickets booked through different modes
When it comes to cancelling your railway ticket, the refund mechanism may differ depending on the mode of booking. Here is an in-depth look at the refund mechanisms for cancelled railway tickets booked through various modes:
- Online bookings: If you have booked your ticket online through IRCTC or any other railway ticket booking website, the refund will be processed automatically into the account used for payment after deducting the applicable cancellation fee. The exact refund amount and time taken for the refund to reflect in your account may vary based on the payment mode chosen while booking.
- Offline bookings: If you have booked your ticket offline through a railway reservation counter or a ticket booking agent, you will have to visit the nearest railway reservation counter to cancel the ticket. The refund will be processed at the counter after deducting the applicable cancellation fee along with a certain processing fee.
- Tatkal bookings: If you have booked a tatkal ticket and cancel it, the refund will be processed as per the tatkal cancellation rules. If you cancel within 24 hours of the scheduled departure, no refund will be provided. If you cancel between 24 hours and up to 4 hours before the departure, you will be refunded up to 50% of the fare.
Note: The cancellation fee applicable for railway ticket cancellations varies for different types of tickets and cancellations. It is always advisable to check the cancellation fee rules while booking the ticket.
Here is a table with some examples of cancellation fees for different types of railway tickets:
| Type of Ticket | Cancellation Fee (in % of total fare) |
|---|---|
| AC First Class/Executive Class | Rs. 240 |
| AC 2 Tier/First Class | Rs. 200 |
| AC 3 Tier/AC Chair Car/AC 3 Economy | Rs. 180 |
| Sleeper/Second Class | Rs. 120 |
It is important to note that the refund mechanism for cancelled railway tickets may differ based on the specific circumstances of your booking. For accurate information regarding the refund process for your specific booking, it is always best to directly contact the railway helpline or customer care.
Grievance redressal mechanism for refund of cancelled railway tickets
Despite the Indian Railways’ efforts to provide convenience and hassle-free travel, there may be situations where passengers may have to cancel their tickets. In such cases, they may be entitled to a refund, subject to certain terms and conditions. However, there may also be instances where passengers may not receive a refund, resulting in grievances on their part. In such cases, the Indian Railways has set up a grievance redressal mechanism to address the concerns of passengers.
- Passengers can file a complaint regarding non-receipt of refund through various channels, such as online, phone, or letter. The standard format for filing a complaint is by using Annexure-V of the Indian Railways’ Refund Rules.
- The complaint should clearly state the pnr number, train number, date of journey, class of travel, and the amount of refund claimed. Supporting documents, such as cancelled ticket, bank statement, or proof of payment, should be attached with the complaint for verification purposes.
- Passengers can also approach the Chief Commercial Manager (Passenger Marketing) of the respective zonal railways for redressal of their grievances. The zonal railways are responsible for dealing with passenger grievances and providing timely redressal of the same.
In addition to the above, the Indian Railways has also introduced a facility for filing online grievances regarding cancelled ticket refunds through their official website. Passengers can log in to this facility and register their complaints online. The grievance redressal mechanism of the Indian Railways ensures that complaints are resolved within a stipulated time frame and in a transparent manner.
Table: Time Frame for Refund of Cancelled Railway Tickets
| Type of Ticket | Time Frame for Refund |
|---|---|
| Confirmed Ticket | Up to 72 Hours |
| Waitlisted Ticket | Up to 72 Hours |
| RAC Ticket | Up to 72 Hours |
| Tatkal Ticket | Up to 24 Hours |
| Train Cancellation | Up to 3 Days from the Date of Journey |
The Indian Railways’ grievance redressal mechanism ensures that passengers who cancel their tickets are refunded in a timely and efficient manner, while also addressing their grievances effectively.
FAQs About Does Cancellation of Railway Ticket Get Refunded
1. Will I get my full refund for a cancelled railway ticket?
Yes, you can get your full refund for a cancelled railway ticket if you cancel the ticket before the chart preparation for the train.
2. Can I get a refund if I cancel my railway ticket after the chart preparation?
Yes, you can still get a refund if you cancel your railway ticket after the chart preparation. But this refund will depend on various factors such as the class of travel, distance, and the time of cancellation.
3. How can I cancel my railway ticket?
You can cancel your railway ticket either by visiting the nearest railway station or by visiting the official IRCTC website. You can also cancel your railway ticket through the IRCTC mobile app.
4. Can I cancel my railway ticket after the departure of the train?
No, you cannot cancel your railway ticket after the departure of the train. In this case, your ticket will be considered as a no-show and you will not be eligible for a refund.
5. How long does it take to get a refund for a cancelled railway ticket?
The time taken to get a refund for a cancelled railway ticket varies from 2-7 days depending on the mode of payment.
6. Will I get my full refund if my train gets cancelled?
Yes, you will get your full refund if your train gets cancelled due to any reason.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Visiting!
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