Can I get a refund if a concert is canceled?
How Refunds Work for Canceled Shows
When a concert is canceled (not postponed), the event is permanently called off. In most cases, the ticketing company or venue will automatically refund the face value of your tickets to the original payment method. You usually don't need to do anything, but it can take a few weeks for the refund to appear.
The refund typically covers the ticket price plus any mandatory fees, but service or processing fees may be non-refundable depending on the seller's policy. Always check the terms you agreed to at purchase. If you bought from a resale marketplace, their policy may differ.
Where You Bought Matters
Primary sellers like Ticketmaster, AXS, or the venue box office generally issue automatic refunds for canceled events. Third-party resale sites like StubHub or Vivid Seats often have their own guarantees, but they may refund only what you paid or offer a credit. If you bought from a scalper or individual, getting a refund can be much harder.
If you purchased with a credit card, you may have additional protection. Many credit card companies allow you to dispute a charge if the event was canceled and the seller won't refund. This is a last resort but can be effective.
- Check your email for refund notifications from the seller.
- Contact the point of purchase if you haven't heard anything within a week.
- Keep your ticket confirmation and receipts.
- If you bought resale, review the marketplace's guarantee.
- Consider a credit card chargeback if all else fails.
Common mistakes
- Assuming all fees are refunded—some sellers keep service fees even for canceled shows.
- Waiting too long to request a refund; some sellers have deadlines.
- Thinking you can get a refund from the artist or venue directly if you bought through a third party.
