Why Do You Still Worry About Getting a Refund from Southwest? Booked your Southwest flight and now stuck with second thoughts about cancellation policy? Maybe your plans changed or work got in the way. Now, you’re left asking: Will I get my money back? You’re not alone. Every day, travelers in the U.S. go through this same worry.
Southwest is one of the most flexible carriers in the country, but that doesn’t mean every ticket gets you cash back. Their fare types have different rules. It’s easy to miss the fine print if you’re in a rush. And when plans change, refunds become more than just a “nice to have”—they become a need.
Let’s break down the Southwest cancellation policy and look at which fare types give you refunds, which don’t, and what you can do about it.
3 Key Takeaways
- Not all fare types are refundable; only Anytime and Business Select offer full refunds.
- You can cancel any fare under the Southwest cancellation within 24 hours rule and get your full money back.
- For non-refundable tickets, travel credits are your best fallback.
Refund Rules Change Based on Fare Type
Not every Southwest fare is equal when it comes to getting your money back. They have four main fare types: Wanna Get Away, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, and Business Select. Each of these comes with its own refund terms.
| Fare Type | Refundable? | Travel Credit? | Extra Notes |
| Wanna Get Away | No | Yes (non-transferable) | Funds expire after 12 months |
| Wanna Get Away Plus | No | Yes (transferable) | Funds transferable to others |
| Anytime | Yes | Yes | Fully refundable |
| Business Select | Yes | Yes | Fully refundable with perks |
Even though Wanna Get Away fares are cheaper, they don’t offer a cash refund. You’ll get flight credit instead. On the flip side, Anytime and Business Select fares can be refunded in full to your original mode of payment.
One key thing to know—if you used Rapid Rewards points, those get refunded right back into your account, no matter the fare type.
Canceling Southwest Within 24 Hours Can Get You a Refund
Here’s where you’re in luck. If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of booking, you can get a full refund, regardless of the fare type. This is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation rule, and Southwest honors it without exception.
This means even if you picked the lowest fare, you’ll still get your money back if you act fast. The only thing is—you need to cancel at least 10 minutes before the flight’s departure time.
This southwest cancellation within 24 hours rule works even for Wanna Get Away fares, which are usually non-refundable. But remember, after the 24-hour mark, standard fare rules apply.
How to Cancel and What to Expect
Here’s how to handle it right so you don’t miss out:
- Log in to your Southwest account
- Head to “My Trips.”
- Select the flight you want to cancel
- Choose your refund method (where allowed) or accept travel credit.
- Get a cancellation confirmation on your email.
There’s no fee to cancel, no matter which fare you booked. But if you miss the cut-off time or don’t show up, you may lose your funds. That’s why you must act ahead of time.
When Refunds Are Not an Option: What You Can Do
Not every ticket gives you cash back. But you still have a few options:
- Use travel funds: Rebook a new flight within 12 months.
- Transfer funds: If you booked Wanna Get Away Plus, send the credit to someone else.
- Request a name change: If you want someone else to use your ticket, visit Southwest Name Change for help.
- Claim tax refunds: Even if your fare is non-refundable, you can ask for refunds on unused taxes.
- Watch promo offers: Southwest may let you convert credits during special promo periods.
Be aware: only the Anytime and Business Select fares guarantee a refund to your card or bank.
Know Your Fare, Know Your Rights
We get it—flight plans shift. But with a little bit of care and awareness, you won’t lose your hard-earned money. The southwest cancellation policy is fair, but only if you know what you booked and what it gives back. If you act fast, cancel smart, and choose the right fare type, you’re safe.
Need to shift the name on your ticket? Head to Southwest Name Change. For any fare refunds, terms, or future travel funds, it’s always best to read the rules before you click “book.”
FAQs
Yes, but not all cancellations lead to refunds. Some give travel credit.
No. Southwest does not charge cancellation fees.
Yes. They usually expire after 12 months unless stated otherwise.
You lose the funds unless you cancelled at least 10 minutes before departure.
It may take up to 7 business days to reflect in your account.
