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Trip Cancellation Insurance Explained

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Table of Contents

What is trip cancellation insurance?

Covered reasons for trip cancellation, what is not covered by trip cancellation insurance, cancel for any reason trip insurance, is trip cancellation insurance expensive, different ways to get trip cancellation insurance, which insurance coverage is best for me.

When booking travel, particularly expensive trips consisting of nonrefundable reservations, it makes sense to consider trip cancellation insurance since it can protect your deposit if your plans do not materialize due to unforeseen events. However, not every reason for canceling a trip will qualify for coverage, so you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the basics of trip cancellation insurance.

Trip cancellation coverage can be purchased as part of a comprehensive travel insurance policy , or you can receive it for free when you hold certain premium credit cards. The benefit is designed to protect prepaid, nonrefundable reservations, including flights, hotel reservations and other bookings if the trip is canceled due to an extraordinary circumstance. Each policy will state exactly which events are considered valid reasons for cancellations.

With COVID-19 still affecting travel plans, you’ll want to pay close attention to which reasons for cancellation due to the pandemic are valid. For example, wanting to cancel a trip you booked a while ago because your destination now has rising COVID-19 numbers and you’re afraid to travel is not likely a valid reason.

If you want to be able to cancel a trip for truly any reason, consider the Cancel For Any Reason supplemental upgrade when purchasing your insurance policy. CFAR will allow you to get up to 75% of your trip investment back as long as the trip is cancelled at least two days before departure.

» Learn more: Does my travel insurance cover the coronavirus?

Imagine you’ve booked a two-week vacation to Italy costing $5,000 ($1,000 flight, $3,500 hotel and $500 excursions), all of which is nonrefundable. Then, a week before your departure date, you fall and break your leg.

So, what does trip cancellation insurance cover?

If you have trip cancellation insurance, you’ll be able to get your entire prepaid, nonrefundable trip cost back (as long as the entire amount was insured), since injuries that necessitate medical treatment and prevent you from taking your trip qualify as a covered reason.

Other covered reasons include death of your traveling companion, inclement weather that results in disrupted service, jury duty, terrorist incident, job termination and other extraordinary events.

Although this is not an entire list of all the covered reasons, generally the cancellation must be due to unforeseen circumstances to qualify for a reimbursement. Review the fine print of your policy for the details of exactly which reasons are covered. When seeking reimbursement, you’ll need to submit claims to the insurance provider to substantiate your claim.

Although a wide range of reasons allow you to receive your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses back in the event of a trip cancellation, there are important exclusions to know about.

Trip cancellation insurance will not cover losses arising from self-harm, foreseeable events, acts of war, taking part in activities considered dangerous (e.g., skydiving, bungee jumping, endurance races, etc.), a felony, childbirth, dental treatment and more.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

So what if you want the flexibility to cancel your trip for reasons other than those covered by your policy? For that, you're going to need the CFAR insurance mentioned above.

CFAR is often available as an add-on to travel insurance policies, and while it can come in handy if you want to cancel your trip just because, you're not likely to get all your money back.

Most CFAR policies will only reimburse 75% of your nonrefundable travel expenditures.

» Learn more: Best travel insurance with Cancel For Any Reason Coverage

The price of trip cancellation insurance can vary based on the traveler’s age, destination, length of trip, cost of trip and insurance company.

Using the same $5,000, two-week trip to Italy as mentioned above, a search of policies on SquareMouth (a NerdWallet partner) ranged from $115 to $470, representing 2.3% to 9.4% of the total trip cost.

» Learn more: How much is travel insurance?

All policies provide 100% coverage of the trip cost, however the more expensive plans usually have higher limits on benefits like medical evacuation.

If you’re only looking for trip cancellation coverage and no other protections, a policy equating to 2.3% of the total trip expenses seems reasonable.

On your travel credit card

Trip cancellation coverage can be included as part of a comprehensive travel insurance plan or offered as a benefit on premium travel credit cards. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® will reimburse you or your immediate family members up to $10,000 per trip. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express and many other American Express cards also offer up to $10,000 in trip cancellation coverage. Terms apply.

These premium cards also offer other insurance benefits like trip interruption coverage, emergency assistance services, trip delay and more.

If you travel often and typically purchase trip cancellation coverage, consider applying for one of the cards that offer complimentary travel insurance . Not only will you get trip insurance benefits, but you will also get other travel perks and statement credits that can partly offset the annual fee.

Supplement by purchasing policies out-of-pocket

If the coverage limits offered on the cards aren’t sufficient or you’re looking for more protections (e.g., coverage for emergency medical expenses), you’d be better off with a travel insurance . Although you’d incur an additional cost for purchasing a comprehensive plan, you’d have many more benefits not commonly found in the insurance policies offered by the credit cards.

A comprehensive trip cancellation policy is likely to cover canceled flights so long as the flight or flights are nonrefundable and are a part of the total, prepaid expenses covered by your policy. Insurance provided by travel cards typically includes trip delay or cancellation coverage so long as you used that card to pay for your flight reservations.

If you're forced to cancel your trip due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control, travel insurance will provide coverage for some or all of your nonrefundable travel expenditures, depending on your policy. Covered events will vary, so be sure to review the terms of any plan you intend to purchase.

Trip cancellation insurance is available for purchase from a wide range of companies and is often included as a benefit on travel credit cards. Under certain circumstances, it provides coverage for prepaid travel expenses in the event that you cannot complete your trip as planned.

A comprehensive trip cancellation policy is likely to cover canceled flights so long as the flight or flights are nonrefundable and are a part of the total, prepaid expenses covered by your policy.

Insurance provided by travel cards

typically includes trip delay or cancellation coverage so long as you used that card to pay for your flight reservations.

If you’re going on a trip consisting of costly flights, hotel reservations and excursions and would like to protect your prepaid, nonrefundable deposit but do not need any other coverage, a minimally priced trip cancellation insurance policy is a good choice.

If you have a premium travel credit card , check if you already have trip cancellation insurance as a benefit before you purchase a policy.

However, if you’re looking for additional coverage like travel medical insurance , and/or a basic plan doesn’t have adequate limits, consider a comprehensive travel insurance policy from providers such as AAA , Allianz , and AIG . Read NerdWallet's full analysis of the best travel insurance companies here .

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

U.S. News takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

6 Best Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance Options

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Travelex Insurance Services »

Seven Corners »

AXA Assistance USA »

IMG Travel Insurance »

Squaremouth »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance Options.

Table of Contents

• Rating Details

Allianz Travel Insurance

Travelex insurance services.

Even the best travel insurance policies don't cover every "what if." "If you buy travel insurance, there are covered reasons for cancellation or interruption. If your situation doesn't fit those covered reasons, there's no coverage," explains Angela Borden, product strategist with Seven Corners .

That's why cancel for any reason coverage, or CFAR, can be a valuable add-on. With this type of policy, you can cancel your trip for any reason at all and still get a percentage of your prepaid travel expenses back (typically around 50% to 80% of what you’ve already paid; percentages vary by provider).

Read on to see the best cancel for any reason travel insurance options and the main policy details you should know about, as well as answers to common questions around this type of coverage.

Seven Corners

Axa assistance usa, img travel insurance, squaremouth, best cfar insurance options in detail.

Reimburses up to 80% of prepaid travel arrangements

Allows you to cancel trip as late as day of departure

"Cancel Anytime" coverage may not be available in every state

Can cancel trip up to 48 hours before departure

Emergency medical coverage is only $50,000

CFAR add-on offers up to 75% reimbursement for prepaid travel costs

CFAR coverage can be purchased up to 20 days after initial trip payment

Benefit not available in all states

Get up to 75% of prepaid travel expenses back when you cancel for any reason

10-day money back guarantee if dissatisfied (prior to your trip)

Must purchase CFAR coverage within 14 days of initial trip deposit

Get back up to 75% of the full cost of nonrefundable travel expenses

CFAR coverage can be purchased within up to 20 days of the initial trip deposit

CFAR coverage does not apply if the travel supplier goes out of business or refuses to provide services

Compare multiple plans with CFAR coverage in one place

Comparison tool makes it easy to price shop

CFAR coverage reimbursements and fine print vary by company

Frequently Asked Questions

Cancel for any reason insurance (also called CFAR coverage) is a type of trip cancellation insurance that lets you cancel your trip for a reason not listed as a covered reason in your plan. For example, you may decide not to travel due to an illness in your extended family or a specific financial issue you're dealing with. In either case, this time-sensitive coverage can help you get reimbursement for prepaid trip payments you have made toward airfare, hotel stays, tours and more.

CFAR coverage typically needs to be purchased within a sensitive period of time after making a trip deposit (usually ranging from 14 to 20 days after). Travelers only get back between 50% and 80% of prepaid travel expenses, depending on your policy, so this coverage won't lead to a full refund.

If you're worried how COVID-19 might affect your travel plans, you can purchase travel insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage . That said, CFAR protection can also be a good investment, particularly if you want the option to cancel based on last-minute disinclination to travel due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning content creator who has been writing about travel insurance and travel for more than a decade. She has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world, and she has experience navigating the claims and reimbursement process. In fact, she has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg – who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states – in their family media business.

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Travel Insurance

What is trip cancellation travel insurance?

Lizzie Nealon

Kara McGinley

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 9:17 a.m. UTC Nov. 13, 2023

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• Trip cancellation insurance covers your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses if you’re unable to travel due to certain unforeseen circumstances, such as an illness or the death of a family member.
• Trip cancellation insurance generally won’t cover foreseeable or preventable events, such as a hurricane that was named before you bought coverage. 
• Basic trip cancellation insurance typically costs between 5% and 10% of the total cost of your trip.

The average household spent more than $2,000 a year on travel before the pandemic. As traveling rebounds and you’re ready to plan your next trip, a trip cancellation policy can give you peace of mind. But it’s important to understand what trip cancellation insurance does and does not cover.  

What is trip cancellation insurance?

Trip cancellation insurance is a type of travel insurance designed to reimburse you for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses when you cancel your trip because of a reason listed in your policy. 

Trip cancellation insurance is often part of a comprehensive travel insurance plan, but it can also be purchased separately. 

You can typically purchase trip cancellation insurance up to the day before your scheduled departure. It’s best, however, to buy a travel insurance plan as soon as you make your first trip deposit. You won’t be charged extra for buying a plan earlier, and you will be covered for a longer period of time.

What trip cancellation insurance covers

Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for 100% of your nonrefundable and prepaid trip costs if you cancel for a covered reason, which may include: 

• Death of your travel companion, business partner or family member (policies differ on who is considered a family member).
• Injury or illness of you or a travel companion (documented by a doctor).
• Complications from pregnancy for you or your travel companion.
• Traffic accident en route to departure.
• Mechanical breakdown or other failure of your transportation.
• Mandated shutdown of an airport or air traffic control system.
• Air traffic control or airport shutdown due to fire or power outage.
• Mandatory evacuation due to an unforeseen natural disaster.
• Severe, sudden weather.
• Your home or your trip lodging is uninhabitable due to a natural disaster, vandalism or burglary.
• Hurricane warning or hurricane watch (you must have purchased the policy before the storm was named).
• Terrorist attack.

What trip cancellation insurance does not cover

While trip cancellation policies differ, most plans will not cover incidents that could be foreseen or planned around. For instance, most trip cancellation policies will not cover cancellations resulting from:

• Alcohol or substance use.
• Committing a felony.
• Dental treatment or elective procedures.
• Harm resulting from dangerous activities such as skydiving or bungee jumping.
• Mental or nervous health disorders.
• Normal pregnancy and childbirth.
• Participation in amateur or professional sporting events.
• Self-harm. 

What is “cancel for any reason” coverage?  

If you want to be able to cancel your trip for any reason, not only those specified in your policy, consider buying “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage. This premium upgrade will add about 50% to the cost of your trip cancellation insurance but will give you greater flexibility with your plans.  

CFAR coverage typically reimburses up to 75% of your nonrefundable trip costs when you cancel a trip. But you have to cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure if you hope to file a successful CFAR claim. 

How much does trip cancellation insurance cost?

A basic travel insurance policy with trip cancellation coverage typically costs between 5% and 10% of the total cost of your trip. That means if you take a $5,000 safari trip to Tanzania, your travel insurance might cost between $250 and $500. 

How much you pay for trip cancellation insurance will depend on the travel insurance company, the plan and level of coverage you choose, the number of travelers in your party and their ages, your trip length and trip expenses. 

How to get trip cancellation insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance policies usually include trip cancellation benefits, but you can also buy a standalone trip cancellation policy. 

To shop for trip cancellation insurance, follow these steps. 

• Check if your credit card has travel insurance. If your credit card provides trip cancellation benefits when you pay for trip expenses with that card, you may opt to skip buying a separate trip insurance policy.
• Compare quotes. Choose a travel insurance company by comparing travel insurance plans and quotes online . 
• Buy the plan you want. You can buy travel insurance online. Be prepared to enter your travel dates and destination, the total value of your trip and information about your travel companions.
• Review your plan . After buying travel insurance, you typically have a free look period of 14 or 15 days. If you read the details of your plan and decide it’s not a good fit, you can cancel and request a refund during that period. 

Credit card rewards and trip cancellation insurance

The following cards provide complimentary travel insurance with trip cancellation benefits when you pay for your travel using the card :

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card * The information for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. .
• Chase Freedom Flex℠ * The information for the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. .
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® .
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card .¹
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card * The information for the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. .
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express * The information for the The Business Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. .¹
• The Platinum Card® from American Express .¹
• United℠ Explorer Card * The information for the United℠ Explorer Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. .
• United Club℠ Infinite Card * The information for the United Club℠ Infinite Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

All information about The Business Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Check to see if your credit card offers travel insurance with trip purchases and what coverage it provides. Travel insurance provided by credit cards isn’t usually as comprehensive as a separate policy.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if you need to cancel a trip for a covered reason. Valid reasons for trip cancellation typically include unforeseen events such as a death in the family, sudden weather that leaves your destination uninhabitable or an illness that is documented by a doctor.

Most travel insurance plans bundle together several types of coverage, including trip cancellation insurance. If you have trip cancellation insurance, you can file a claim for any prepaid and nonrefundable expenses associated with a trip when you decide to cancel for a reason listed in your policy. 

When it comes to travel insurance, you’re not limited to cancellation coverage. The best comprehensive travel insurance plans also include coverage for incidents related to epidemics, emergency medical needs, baggage loss and damage, travel delays and trip interruption.

¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

*The information for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Chase Freedom Flex℠, Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, United Club℠ Infinite Card and United℠ Explorer Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Lizzie's commentary has been published in Bankrate, CNBC, the Washington Post, the Washington Examiner, MSN and more.

Kara McGinley is deputy editor of insurance at USA TODAY Blueprint and a licensed home insurance expert. Previously, she was a senior editor at Policygenius, where she specialized in homeowners and renters insurance. Her work and insights have been featured in MSN, Lifehacker, Kiplinger, PropertyCasualty360 and more.

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• Plan Your Trip
• Safety & Insurance

How To Cancel A Travel Insurance Policy

Published: December 18, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Rosanna Pawlak

Introduction

When planning a trip, securing travel insurance is a prudent decision to safeguard against unforeseen events. However, circumstances may arise that necessitate the cancellation of your travel insurance policy. Understanding the process for canceling your policy is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the necessary steps to cancel a travel insurance policy, including understanding your policy, contacting your insurance provider, providing necessary information, the cancellation process, and refund policies.

Canceling a travel insurance policy involves several considerations, such as the terms and conditions outlined in the policy, the specific requirements of the insurance provider, and the timeline for initiating the cancellation. By gaining insight into these aspects, you can navigate the cancellation process with confidence and clarity.

Whether you are facing a change of plans, unexpected circumstances, or simply reevaluating your insurance needs, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to effectively cancel your travel insurance policy. Understanding the intricacies of this process will empower you to make informed decisions and take the necessary steps to manage your travel insurance effectively. Let's delve into the essential details to facilitate a seamless cancellation experience.

Understanding Your Policy

Before embarking on the journey of canceling your travel insurance policy, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the policy itself. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions outlined in the policy document, paying particular attention to the section pertaining to cancellations and refunds. This section will elucidate the specific circumstances under which a policy can be canceled and the associated refund eligibility.

Furthermore, take note of any exclusions or limitations that may impact the cancellation process. For instance, certain policies may have a cooling-off period during which you can cancel the policy and receive a full refund, while others may entail a pro-rata refund based on the duration of coverage. Understanding these nuances will enable you to navigate the cancellation process with clarity and foresight.

It is also essential to ascertain the contact details of your insurance provider and the designated channels for initiating a cancellation. Some insurance companies may have specific procedures or forms that need to be completed when canceling a policy. By familiarizing yourself with these details beforehand, you can streamline the cancellation process and avoid potential complications.

Additionally, consider consulting with a customer service representative or insurance agent to gain insights into the cancellation process and address any queries or concerns you may have. By proactively seeking clarification on the policy terms and cancellation procedures, you can approach the next steps with confidence and a clear understanding of the process.

Understanding the intricacies of your travel insurance policy is the foundational step in the cancellation journey. By equipping yourself with this knowledge, you can proceed to the next phase of contacting your insurance provider and initiating the cancellation process with confidence and clarity.

Contacting Your Insurance Provider

Once you have familiarized yourself with the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy, the next crucial step is to initiate contact with your insurance provider. The contact details for your insurance company can typically be found on the policy document, official website, or customer service helpline. It is essential to reach out to the designated point of contact to notify them of your intent to cancel the policy.

When contacting your insurance provider, be prepared to provide specific details such as your policy number, personal information, and the reason for cancellation. Clearly articulating the reason for canceling the policy can aid the insurance provider in facilitating the process efficiently. Whether it is due to a change in travel plans, unforeseen circumstances, or a reassessment of insurance needs, transparent communication can expedite the cancellation process.

It is advisable to inquire about any documentation or forms that may be required to formalize the cancellation. Some insurance companies may have specific cancellation forms or online portals where the cancellation request can be submitted. By seeking clarity on the necessary procedures, you can ensure that the cancellation request is executed in accordance with the provider’s requirements.

During the interaction with your insurance provider, take note of the timeline and any potential implications on the refund amount based on the cancellation date. Understanding the refund policies and any applicable charges or deductions is essential for managing expectations and making informed decisions regarding the cancellation.

Effective communication with your insurance provider is pivotal in expediting the cancellation process and ensuring that all necessary steps are undertaken in accordance with the policy terms. By proactively reaching out and engaging in transparent dialogue, you can set the stage for a seamless and efficient cancellation experience.

Providing Necessary Information

When initiating the cancellation of your travel insurance policy, providing the necessary information to your insurance provider is paramount to facilitate a smooth and efficient process. The specific details and documentation required may vary based on the insurance company’s policies and the nature of the cancellation. By ensuring that all requisite information is accurately conveyed, you can expedite the cancellation process and mitigate potential delays.

One of the primary pieces of information required for canceling a travel insurance policy is the policy number. This unique identifier enables the insurance provider to locate and process the cancellation request accurately. Additionally, be prepared to furnish personal details such as your full name, contact information, and any other identifying information specified by the insurance company.

Clearly articulating the reason for canceling the policy is also essential. Whether it pertains to a change in travel plans, unforeseen circumstances, or a reassessment of insurance needs, providing a concise explanation can aid the insurance provider in understanding the basis for the cancellation. Transparent communication fosters a cooperative and efficient process.

Depending on the insurance company’s procedures, you may be required to complete a cancellation form or submit a written request outlining the details of the cancellation. Adhering to the specified format and providing accurate information in the documentation can streamline the cancellation process and minimize the likelihood of errors or discrepancies.

Moreover, if there are any additional documents or proofs related to the cancellation reason, such as travel itinerary changes, medical certificates, or other pertinent records, ensure that these are prepared and submitted as per the insurance provider’s requirements. This proactive approach can preemptively address any verification needs and bolster the credibility of the cancellation request.

By diligently furnishing the requisite information and adhering to the documentation procedures stipulated by the insurance provider, you can navigate the cancellation process with efficiency and precision. Proactive preparation and transparent communication play a pivotal role in expediting the cancellation and setting the stage for a seamless transition.

Cancellation Process

The cancellation process for a travel insurance policy encompasses a series of essential steps that culminate in the formal termination of the coverage. Once you have initiated contact with your insurance provider and provided the necessary information, the subsequent stages of the cancellation process unfold in accordance with the policies and procedures outlined by the insurance company.

Upon receiving your cancellation request and the requisite information, the insurance provider will undertake a review to validate the details and ensure that all necessary documentation has been submitted. This may involve a thorough assessment of the provided information to ascertain the eligibility for cancellation and the associated refund, if applicable.

Depending on the insurance company’s protocols, the formalization of the cancellation may involve the issuance of a cancellation confirmation or acknowledgment. This document serves as a tangible validation of the cancellation request and outlines the effective date of the policy termination. It is advisable to retain this confirmation for your records, as it substantiates the completion of the cancellation process.

Throughout the cancellation process, maintaining open communication with the insurance provider is crucial. In the event of any queries or additional information required to facilitate the cancellation, prompt and transparent correspondence can expedite the resolution of any outstanding matters and ensure a seamless progression towards the formalization of the cancellation.

It is important to adhere to any specified timelines or procedural guidelines stipulated by the insurance company to avoid potential complications or delays in the cancellation process. By aligning with the designated protocols and promptly addressing any outstanding requirements, you can contribute to a streamlined and efficient cancellation experience.

Ultimately, the successful completion of the cancellation process culminates in the formal termination of your travel insurance policy, providing clarity and closure to the coverage. By navigating the cancellation process with attentiveness and adherence to the insurance company’s guidelines, you can effectively manage the transition and proceed with confidence towards the next steps in your travel preparations.

Refund Policies

Understanding the refund policies associated with the cancellation of a travel insurance policy is integral to managing expectations and gaining insights into the potential financial implications of the termination. Refund eligibility and the applicable refund amount are contingent on various factors, including the timing of the cancellation, the specific terms outlined in the policy, and the insurance company’s refund protocols.

One of the primary considerations in refund policies is the presence of a cooling-off period. Some insurance policies feature a stipulated timeframe, typically ranging from a few days to a few weeks after the policy purchase, during which the policyholder can cancel the coverage and receive a full refund. Familiarizing yourself with the existence and duration of this cooling-off period is crucial, as it can significantly impact the refund entitlement.

For cancellations initiated beyond the cooling-off period, the refund amount may be subject to a pro-rata calculation based on the unused portion of the policy. This means that the refund is prorated in accordance with the duration for which the coverage was in effect. It is imperative to review the policy terms to ascertain the specific refund calculation methodology and any potential deductions or administrative charges that may apply.

Additionally, certain circumstances such as the occurrence of a covered event or a change in travel plans due to unforeseen reasons may influence the refund eligibility. If the reason for cancellation aligns with the criteria specified in the policy for a full or partial refund, it is essential to communicate these details to the insurance provider to ensure that the refund is processed accurately.

Upon the successful completion of the cancellation process, the insurance provider will outline the refund amount, if applicable, and the timeline for disbursing the refund. It is advisable to maintain proactive communication with the provider to address any queries related to the refund and to obtain a clear understanding of the expected timeline for receiving the refunded amount.

By comprehensively understanding the refund policies and engaging in transparent communication with the insurance provider, you can navigate the refund process with clarity and ensure that the financial aspects of the cancellation are managed effectively.

Cancelling a travel insurance policy necessitates a thorough understanding of the policy terms, effective communication with the insurance provider, and adherence to the stipulated procedures. By embarking on this journey armed with knowledge and preparedness, you can navigate the cancellation process with confidence and clarity, ensuring a seamless transition.

Understanding the intricacies of your policy, including the cancellation and refund provisions, empowers you to make informed decisions and manage expectations effectively. By familiarizing yourself with the refund policies, potential charges, and the impact of timing on the refund amount, you can approach the cancellation process with foresight and awareness.

Initiating contact with your insurance provider and providing the necessary information in a transparent and timely manner are pivotal steps in expediting the cancellation process. By proactively engaging with the insurance company and adhering to their specified procedures, you can facilitate a smooth and efficient cancellation experience.

Throughout the cancellation process, maintaining open communication, adhering to timelines, and addressing any outstanding requirements contribute to a streamlined and effective resolution. By upholding these principles, you can navigate the cancellation journey with attentiveness and diligence, ensuring that all necessary steps are undertaken in accordance with the policy terms.

Ultimately, comprehending the intricacies of the cancellation process and the associated refund policies enables you to approach the termination of your travel insurance policy with clarity and confidence. By embracing proactive communication, meticulous attention to detail, and a comprehensive understanding of the policy provisions, you can effectively manage the cancellation and proceed with your travel plans with peace of mind.

Armed with the insights and knowledge gleaned from this guide, you are well-equipped to embark on the cancellation process with assurance, ensuring that your travel insurance needs are managed with diligence and efficacy.

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Best Travel Insurance Policies With Cancel for Any Reason Coverage [2023]

Jessica Merritt

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What Is Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance?

Cancel for any reason travel insurance costs, is cancel for any reason coverage standard, what to look for in a cancel for any reason travel insurance policy, the best travel insurance plans with cancel for any reason coverage, denial of cfar coverage, final thoughts.

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Unexpected circumstances can disrupt even the best-laid travel plans, which is where Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) travel insurance comes in. With CFAR travel insurance, you can cancel your trip for almost any reason and receive partial reimbursement for nonrefundable expenses.

While more costly than standard travel insurance or the travel coverage you might have on your credit card, CFAR offers value in peace of mind with a safety net that goes beyond the limits of what standard travel insurance policies offer. Whether you’ve had a change of heart, had unexpected obligations or emergencies pop up, or just want to stay as flexible as possible, CFAR coverage protects your travel investment.

Read this guide to learn what CFAR travel insurance entails, when you can use it, and how to add CFAR travel insurance to your existing travel insurance policy. You can also see some examples of travel insurance plans with CFAR options. 

CFAR travel insurance is a supplemental travel insurance policy that enhances trip cancellation coverage. While a standard travel insurance policy might cover specific trip cancellation reasons such as illness, injury, or death of a family member, CFAR travel insurance allows you to cancel your trip for nearly any reason — and still receive partial reimbursement for your prepaid nonrefundable trip expenses.

Here are a few important things to know about Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance:

• Coverage: CFAR insurance enhances the trip cancellation reasons not covered by standard travel insurance policies. This includes things such as personal reasons, work-related issues, or just changing your mind.
• Flexibility: Using CFAR insurance can give you exceptional flexibility if you’re concerned about plan changes or unforeseen events. You can cancel your trip and be eligible for reimbursement even if the reason doesn’t meet the criteria specified by regular travel insurance.
• Timeframe: You typically need to purchase CFAR insurance within a specified period of making the initial trip deposit, usually within 10 to 21 days, depending on the insurance provider. It’s typically available as an optional comprehensive travel insurance policy add-on.
• Reimbursement: While you’ll get reimbursed for prepaid nonrefundable trip expenses if you cancel, you shouldn’t expect full reimbursement. Depending on the policy, CFAR travel insurance reimbursement typically offers 50% to 75%.
• Policy Conditions: Cancellation reasons are extremely flexible, but you’ll still need to meet policy requirements to avoid denying your claim. For example, you usually need to cancel within an allowable time frame, such as at least 2 days before your trip. You’ll need to read your policy carefully to understand limitations and exclusions.

Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance typically doesn’t cover points and miles reimbursement. However, the nonrefundable fees and taxes you must pay can be covered. You can also be reimbursed for fees associated with redepositing the miles or rebooking fees. But travel insurance, even Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance, generally does not insure the retail value of the ticket or your rewards — only your nonrefundable cash outlay.

Eligibility and Requirements for CFAR Coverage

Eligibility for CFAR coverage varies depending on the insurance provider and policy terms. But generally, you’ll need to purchase coverage within a certain timeframe, your trip must meet the criteria, and you must cancel within the allowed period, usually providing documentation to support the cancellation.

In addition to the cancellation timeframe, insurance providers may have other requirements that need to be met for CFAR coverage. These requirements can vary, so it’s essential to review the terms and conditions of the policy carefully. Some examples of additional requirements specified by insurers may include:

• CFAR Purchase Timeframe: Depending on the insurer, you can typically only purchase CFAR coverage within a specific period of your initial trip deposit, usually between 10 to 21 days. It’s essential to check the policy details and ensure you meet the deadline for purchasing CFAR coverage.
• Coverage Criteria: Your trip must meet eligibility for CFAR coverage with eligibility factors such as your residency, age, trip duration, and the total trip cost. 
• Cancellation Timeframe: There’s usually a deadline you must cancel your trip by to be eligible for CFAR reimbursement, typically at least 48 hours from your scheduled departure. 
• Documentation: An insurer may require you to provide documentation supporting your trip cancellation, such as medical certificates, official letters, or other evidence related to the reason for cancellation. 

State regulations restrict CFAR travel insurance in New York, requiring that travel insurance policies provide coverage for specific enumerated risks — which usually excludes CFAR coverage. If you live in New York and want CFAR coverage, you may need to work with an out-of-state insurance provider.

Policy costs for CFAR vary depending on the insurance provider, specific policy, trip cost, and age of those being insured. You should expect CFAR coverage to cost about 10% to 50% more than the base travel insurance policy. For example, on a standard travel insurance policy that costs $200, you should expect to pay $20 to $100 more to add CFAR coverage.

Getting quotes for CFAR insurance from multiple insurance providers is a good idea to compare the costs and coverage based on your specific travel details and requirements.

CFAR travel coverage isn’t standard on most travel insurance policies and is usually offered as an add-on to a standard travel insurance policy.

With a standard travel insurance policy, you generally have specific allowed reasons for trip cancellation, such as illness, injury, or the death of a family member. There are typically predefined criteria and limitations for reimbursement. 

CFAR coverage enhances the reasons for cancellation, allowing you to cancel your trip for any reason and still receive partial reimbursement. However, you should expect to pay more for this coverage than standard travel insurance. 

Some credit cards offer travel insurance as a cardholder benefit, especially travel credit cards. But don’t expect CFAR coverage with credit card travel insurance, as it doesn’t come standard, and you usually can’t customize credit card travel insurance coverage.

Consider these factors as you compare the best CFAR policy:

• Availability: CFAR travel insurance isn’t available with all providers. Ensure the policy you’re considering includes a CFAR option, either as a standalone policy or as an add-on to standard travel insurance plans.
• Eligibility Requirements: Some CFAR policies restrict age, trip duration, and preexisting conditions, so be sure you and your trip meet the requirements.
• Percentage of Reimbursement: Review the CFAR policy before you book to confirm how much you’ll be reimbursed if you need to cancel. CFAR policies usually reimburse 50% to 75% of the trip cost.
• Purchase Deadline: You’ll usually need to purchase your CFAR coverage within a certain period of booking your trip, so be sure you’re buying your policy within that timeframe.
• Cancellation Window: Confirm how many days before your trip you need to cancel to be eligible for reimbursement, and be sure you understand the cancellation window the policy specifies. 
• Refund Method: Find out how the insurance company will refund you if you need to cancel your trip. You might get cash or travel credits.
• Exclusions: Read the policy to understand what’s excluded under CFAR coverage, such as reimbursement limitations related to terrorism, natural disasters, or preexisting conditions.
• Policy Cost: You should expect to pay more for CFAR than standard trip cancellation coverage. Always compare policy costs across at least a few providers. 
• Customer Reviews and Reputation: Read customer reviews and ratings to understand what other customers think of the insurance provider and get insight into how claims and customer service work. 

As you compare policy costs, make sure you’re looking at apples-to-apples policies. A policy that offers greater reimbursement might cost more but offer a better value if you need to cancel.

While not all travel insurance providers offer CFAR coverage, several reputable companies do. Here are some of the best travel insurance policies with CFAR coverage:

• Allianz Global Assistance : If you’ve purchased a OneTrip Prime or OneTrip Premier travel insurance policy, you can add Cancel Anytime to your policy as an upgrade. It reimburses up to 80% of your lost nonrefundable trip costs if you cancel your trip for a reason your plan doesn’t already cover. Allianz CFAR is unique as it allows you to cancel as late as your day of departure — as long as you haven’t left yet.
• AXA Assistance USA : When you buy a Platinum Plan travel insurance policy from AXA Assistance USA, you can get an optional benefit of Cancel for Any Reason with up to 75% of your trip cost reimbursed if you need to cancel. You must purchase coverage within 14 days of your initial trip deposit.
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection : You can upgrade a Berkshire Hathaway ExactCare or LuxuryCare plan with a Cancel for Any Reason upgrade. It provides reimbursement for up to 50% of your nonrefundable trip payments if you have to cancel your trip for a reason not listed in the ExactCare description of coverages.
• IMG Global : Cancel for Any Reason coverage is available to IMG Global travel insurance policyholders. On the iTravelInsured Travel LX plan, you can purchase Cancel and Interruption for Any Reason coverage as an optional upgrade, which covers 75% of your nonrefundable insured trip cost.
• Seven Corners : You can add Cancel for Any Reason coverage to most Seven Corners Trip Protection plans. Seven Corners also offers Interruption for Any Reason coverage as an add-on. Both offer up to 75% reimbursement for your nonrefundable trip expenses.
• Tin Leg : Using Tin Leg Gold coverage, you can add Cancel for Any Reason as an upgrade to get partial — 75% — reimbursement for prepaid and nonrefundable trip payments if your trip is canceled for a reason not already covered by your main policy.
• Travelex Insurance Service : As long as you cancel up to 48 hours before your scheduled departure date, you can get up to 75% of your insured trip costs — up to $7,500 — reimbursed with a Travelex Insurance Service Cancel for Any Reason upgrade.
• Travel Insured International : On Travel Insured International Worldwide Trip Protection policies, you can add Cancel for Any Reason coverage for up to 75% reimbursement on qualifying travel expenses. Travel Insured International also offers Interrupt for Any Reason coverage.
• USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services : With Travel Insurance Select plans from USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services, you can add Cancel for Any Reason or interruption for any reason coverage — with up to 75% reimbursement for qualifying expenses.

Covered Reasons for Trip Cancellation

With CFAR travel insurance, you can cancel your trip and receive reimbursement for nearly any reason, even if standard travel insurance policies do not usually cover it. Your cancellation should be covered no matter your reason for cancellation as long as you meet policy requirements, such as canceling at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure. 

These are some common examples of covered reasons for trip cancellation under CFAR insurance:

• Change of Heart: You can cancel your trip for personal reasons, such as no longer wanting to travel, fear, or choosing a different destination. 
• Work-related Issues: Whether you’ve lost your job, can’t take time off as scheduled, or have another work conflict, you can get reimbursed for trip cancellation using CFAR insurance.
• Family Events: Family obligations such as a wedding, the birth of a child, or a family member’s illness can be covered with CFAR insurance.
• Personal Health Issues: CFAR insurance can cover trip cancellation if you have an unexpected illness or injury that prevents you from traveling — though you’ll need to cancel your trip within the timeframe required by the policy.
• Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, earthquakes, or severe weather conditions that may make your destination unsafe or inaccessible are covered by CFAR insurance.
• Political Unrest: CFAR insurance may cover trip cancellation due to political instability or civil unrest at your destination.

While CFAR travel insurance covers almost any reason you might have to cancel your trip, you should review your policy details carefully to ensure you’re covered. Understand the conditions and limitations, such as cancellation deadlines and reimbursement packages.

While specific reasons for denial of Cancel for Any Reason coverage may vary depending on the insurance provider and policy terms, here are a few examples of potential reasons for denial:

• Failure To Meet the Purchase Timeframe: If you fail to purchase CFAR coverage within the specified timeframe after making your initial trip deposit, the insurance provider may deny your claim. Make sure to review the policy details and adhere to the deadline for purchasing CFAR coverage.
• Preexisting Medical Conditions: Some insurance policies may exclude coverage for preexisting medical conditions. If you or a covered individual has a preexisting medical condition that leads to trip cancellation, the CFAR coverage may be denied. It’s essential to carefully review the policy terms to understand any exclusions related to preexisting conditions.
• Known Events: You’re typically not covered by CFAR if the reason for the cancellation was a “known event” when you purchased the policy. Known events are ones that are widely publicized and occurred before you bought the CFAR policy. For example, purchasing a policy after a hurricane was predicted to make landfall and then canceling for the storm may not be covered.
• Canceling Too Late: You must cancel your trip within a specific timeframe before your scheduled departure date and will be denied if you cancel after this date.
• Insufficient Documentation: You must provide the specific documentation required to support your claim, such as medical certificates or official letters. Your coverage may be denied without the necessary documentation. 
• Failure To Meet Policy Criteria: Some policies have specific criteria for CFAR coverage, such as residency, age, trip duration, and total trip cost. You may not qualify for a CFAR policy if your trip doesn’t meet the criteria, or your claim may be denied if you get a policy but don’t meet the criteria.

How To Add Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance

You can often add CFAR travel insurance as an optional add-on to a comprehensive travel insurance policy — if your insurance carrier offers it. If you already have travel insurance for your trip, check with your insurance provider about the availability and cost of CFAR travel insurance. 

If your current travel insurance provider doesn’t offer CFAR coverage or you haven’t purchased travel insurance for your trip yet, you can look for a CFAR policy as standalone coverage. Research CFAR travel insurance providers and compare policies to find a policy that works for you. 

Let’s walk through adding CFAR coverage to a standard Seven Corners travel insurance policy.

First, I entered travel information to get travel insurance options. I was offered Trip Protection Basic or Trip Protection Choice. At the bottom, notice both have the option to add CFAR coverage.

I selected Trip Protection Basic and then went forward to the optional coverage option. I was offered both Cancel for Any Reason and Interruption for Any Reason (IFAR) coverage. IFAR is far lower than CFAR , so it’s not a bad idea to add if you’re worried you might run into issues after your trip starts and can no longer use your CFAR coverage.

I added CFAR to my coverage, and the website explained in further detail the requirements for the plan.

CFAR coverage can offer flexibility and give you peace of mind that you can get money back for a canceled trip, no matter the reason. But CFAR travel insurance is more costly than standard trip cancellation insurance — and usually only reimburses up to 75% of your nonrefundable trip cost. Compare travel insurance policies offering Cancel for Any Reason add-ons that meet your needs for travel coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you buy cancel for any reason travel insurance after booking.

Yes, you should buy CFAR travel insurance after booking, but don’t wait too long. You usually need to purchase coverage within 10 to 21 days of the first payment on your trip. 

Read our guide on buying travel insurance after departure to find out more.

Do I need Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance?

Whether you need Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance depends on your risk tolerance and the likelihood you’ll need to cancel. If you’re concerned you’ll have a change of heart, have health, family, or work situations that might require you to reschedule your trip, or worry about conditions at your destination — such as traveling during hurricane season or to an area with political unrest — it’s wise to consider CFAR coverage for your trip.

Can I get Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance after 21 days?

You may find a travel insurance provider that offers Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance after 21 days of booking, but it’s not guaranteed, and your options will undoubtedly be limited. It’s best to purchase travel insurance shortly after you book your travel.

How much does Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance cost?

As with any travel insurance, Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance costs vary depending on factors including the insurance provider, your policy details, trip cost, and your age. You should expect to pay about 10% to 50% more than the base travel insurance policy. For example, on a standard travel insurance policy that costs $200, you should expect to pay $20 to $100 more to add CFAR coverage. You can get quotes from multiple travel insurance providers and compare costs before you purchase a policy.

Can Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance be denied?

Just like regular travel insurance, your claim for Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance may be denied. While you have much more flexibility in the reasons you can cancel your trip and get reimbursement, you’ll still need to work within the policy’s requirements, such as canceling your trip at least 48 hours before departure. 

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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Overview of Travel Insurance Coverage

What does travel insurance cover, what does credit card travel insurance cover, what travel insurance coverage do you need to pay more for, choosing the right travel insurance, what does travel insurance cover frequently asked questions, understanding what travel insurance covers.

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• Travel insurance is intended to cover risks and financial losses associated with traveling.
• Coverage can include trip cancellation, baggage protection, medical care, and emergency evacuation.
• When filing a claim, be specific and comprehensive in your documentation to ease the process.

Whether it's a trip across the world or a trip across the state, having travel insurance provides major relief if things go awry. Flight delays, lost baggage, illness, injuries, and other unforeseen events can disrupt even the best-laid plans. With a major disruption comes the potential for unanticipated expenses.

Travel insurance and the coverage it offers can help keep you protected and save you money in the long run.

Travel insurance policies protect travelers from financial losses should something go wrong during their trip. You can customize which coverages you want to include, and there are several to choose from.

"Common types of coverage include trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage protection, coverage for medical care if you get sick or hurt during your trip, and emergency medical evacuation," says Angela Borden, a travel insurance expert and product strategist for travel insurance company Seven Corners.

Travel insurance plans offer nonrefundable payments and other trip-related expenses. While monetary compensation is a primary benefit, there is another valuable perk of travel insurance. It can provide peace of mind.

Your specific travel insurance plan (and its terms and conditions) will determine the minutia and specifics of what is covered. As with most other forms of insurance, a general rule of thumb is the more you spend, the better your coverage.

"Travel insurance can be confusing, so it's best to research a reputable company that specializes in travel insurance and has a long history of successfully helping travelers all over the world," says Borden.

Trip cancellation and interruptions

A travel insurance policy can reimburse you for a prepaid, nonrefundable trip if it is canceled for a covered event, such as a natural disaster or a global pandemic.

Trip interruption insurance covers you if you're already on your trip and you get sick, there's a natural disaster, or something else happens. Make sure to check with your travel insurance providers to discuss any inclusions, coverage, and more.

Travel delays and missed connections

Travel delay insurance coverage provides reimbursement for any expenses you incur when you experience a delay in transit over a minimum time. Reimbursements can include hotels, airfare, food, and other related expenses.

Medical emergencies and evacuations

Typically, US healthcare plans are not accepted in other countries. So travel insurance with medical coverage can be particularly beneficial when you are abroad. Medical coverage can also help with locating doctors and healthcare facilities.

Medical transportation coverage will also pay for emergency evacuation expenses such as airlifts and medically-equipped flights back to the US. Out of pocket, these expenses can easily amount to tens of thousands of dollars. Certain plans may even transport you to a hospital of choice for care.

Travel insurance generally does not include coverage for pre-existing conditions. That said, you can obtain a pre-existing condition waiver, which we will talk about later.  

Baggage and personal belongings

Most airlines will reimburse travelers for lost or destroyed baggage, but be prepared for limitations. Travel insurance plans will typically cover stolen items, such as those stolen out of a hotel room. This may not include expensive jewelry, antiques, or heirloom items. Typically, airlines have a few days to recover your bag.

In the meantime, you can make a claim to pay for items like certain toiletries and other items you need to pick up. If your bag is truly lost or you don't get it for an extended period, you can file a true lost baggage claim.

A major perk on several travel credit cards is embedded credit card travel insurance . Typically, you will need to use the specific card for the transaction (at least with partial payment) for travel coverage to kick in.

Each card has specific rules on what exactly is covered. But one of the industry leaders is the $550-per-year Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. Here's a snapshot of what is covered with this specific card:

• Baggage delay: up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to five days if a passenger carrier delays your baggage by more than six hours.
• Lost and damaged baggage: up to $3,000 per passenger per trip, but only up to $500 per passenger for jewelry and watches and up to $500 per passenger for cameras and other electronic equipment.
• Trip delay reimbursement: up to $500 per ticket if you're delayed more than six hours or require an overnight stay.
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection: up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Medical evacuation benefit: up to $100,000 for necessary emergency evacuation and transportation when on a trip of five to 60 days and traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• Travel accident insurance: accidental death or dismemberment coverage of up to $100,000 (up to $1,000,000 for common carrier travel).
• Emergency medical and dental benefits: up to $2,500 for medical expenses (subject to a $50 deductible) when on a trip arranged by a travel agency and traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• Rental car coverage: primary coverage for damages caused by theft or collision up to $75,000 on rentals of 31 days or fewer

More protections are included with cards with an annual fee, but there are exceptions. The no-annual-fee Chase Freedom Flex, for instance, includes up to $1,500 per person (and up to $6,000 per trip) in trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage.

However, there are some differences between credit card travel coverage and obtaining coverage from a third party.

"Credit card coverage does not typically provide travel medical benefits," Borden says. "For protection if you get sick or hurt while traveling, you'll want a travel insurance plan with medical coverage."

Whether you get your travel insurance in a standalone policy or through a credit card, it's important to review your plan details carefully. In either case, there may be exclusions and other requirements such as deadlines when filing a claim, Borden notes.

Knowing what travel insurance doesn't cover is as important as knowing what it does cover.

"Travelers should understand that travel insurance benefits come into play only if a covered reason occurs," Borden says. Most standard travel insurance plans won't reimburse you for the following:

Cancel for any reason (CFAR)

Cancel-for-any-reason travel insurance covers a trip cancellation for any reason, not just a covered event. your standard benefits won't kick in unless it's a covered event. For instance, you'll be reimbursed simply for changing your mind about taking a trip.

That said, CFAR travel insurance is not without its downsides. For one, it's more expensive than traditional insurance, and most CFAR policies will only reimburse you for a percentage of your travel expenses. Additionally, CFAR policies aren't available for annual travel insurance . 

You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance here.

Foreseen weather events

Sudden storms or unforeseen weather events are typically covered by standard travel insurance plans. There are exceptions to be aware of. For example, an anticipated and named hurricane will not be covered.

Medical tourism

If you're going to travel internationally for a medical procedure or doctor's visit, your travel insurance plan will not cover the procedure itself. Most medical travel plans also won't cover you if something goes wrong with your procedure.

Pre-existing conditions and pregnancy

Those with specific pre-existing conditions, such as someone with diabetes and needing more insulin, will not be covered by most plans. In addition, pregnancy-related expenses will likely not be covered under most plans.

That said, you can obtain a pre-existing condition waiver for stable conditions. In order to obtain a wavier, you will need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time frame from when you booked your trip, usually two to three weeks, depending on your policy.

Extreme sports and activities

Accidents occurring while participating in extreme sports like skydiving and paragliding will typically not be covered under most plans. However, many plans offer the ability to upgrade to a higher-priced version with extended coverage.

Navigating claims and assistance

When a trip goes awry, the first thing you should do is document everything and be as specific as possible with documentation. This will make the claims process easier, as you can substantiate and quantify your financial losses due to the delay.

For example, your flight home has been delayed long enough to be covered under your policy, you'll want to keep any receipts from purchases made while waiting. For instances where your luggage is lost, you will need to file a report with local authorities and document all the items you packed.

Cancellation protection also requires meticulous attention to detail. If you're too sick to fly, you may need to see a doctor to prove your eligibility. If an airline cancels a flight, you'll also need to document any refunds you received as travel insurance isn't going to reimburse you for money you've already gotten back. 

Part of the benefit of CFAR insurance is the reduced paperwork necessary to file a claim. You'll still need to document your nonrefundable losses, but you won't have to substantiate why you're canceling a trip.

Each plan should be personalized to meet the insured party's needs. Some travelers prefer to stick to the bare minimum (flight cancellation benefits through the airline). Others want a comprehensive plan with every coverage possible. Before you buy anything, set your destination. Are there any travel restrictions or changes pending? Does your destination country require emergency or other medical coverage?

If the destination airport is known for lost or delayed luggage, travelers should keep important items in carry-ons. Lost or delayed luggage coverage protects insured parties in the event of a significant delay or total loss.

Second, check current credit card travel benefits to avoid redundancies. Savvy travelers don't need to pay for the same coverage twice.

Finally, consider your individual needs. Do you have a chronic medical condition, or do you feel safe with emergency-only medical coverage? Keep in mind, this does not include coverage for cosmetic surgery or other medical tourism. Do you have a budget limit for travel insurance? Asking and answering these important questions will help every traveler find the right product.

Most travel insurance plans are simple, and Business Insider's guide to the best travel insurance companies outlines our top picks. Remember, read your policy and its specifics closely to ensure it includes the items you need coverage for.

No one likes to dwell on how a trip might not go as planned before even leaving. However, at its core, travel insurance provides peace of mind as you go about your trip. While the upfront cost may seem significant, when you compare it to the potential expenses of a canceled flight, emergency evacuation, or a hefty medical bill, it's a small price to pay in the grand scheme of things.

Coverage for pandemics vary from policy to policy. Some travel insurance companies have specific provisions for pandemic-related cancellations, while others may exclude them entirely.

Sports injuries are often covered under travel insurance, but high-risk or adventure sports might require additional coverage or a special policy.

Travel advisories have different effects on your travel insurance depending on your policy. Traveling to a country already under travel advisory may invalidate your coverage, but if you're already traveling when a travel advisory is announced, you may be covered.

Travel insurance usually covers the cost of emergency medical evacuations to the nearest suitable medical facility, and sometimes back to your home country, if necessary.

Many travel insurance policies provide coverage for the cost of replacing lost or stolen passports during a trip.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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How to File a Travel Insurance Claim

W hen it comes to travel, there are generally two types of people: people who cannot travel as it is too expensive and those who budget $4,000 per year for vacations, according to Forbes. Travel is costly, so people often purchase travel insurance to safeguard their financial investment from unforeseen events like illnesses, luggage delays, personal emergencies, and more.

When policyholders pay honest money for an insurance policy to offer protection, they want to be able to reap the benefits of the travel insurance claim. If your travel insurance company has denied payment, our tips on how to properly file a travel insurance claim may be helpful.

Why Buy Travelers Insurance?

Travel is generally less stressful with vacation insurance — it is packaged as a wise investment that can protect you against financial losses due to unexpected events. For instance, the U.S. State Department highly recommends international travel trip insurance as Medicare and Medicaid often do not cover overseas medical costs.

The travel insurance premium is relatively small compared to the non-refundable trip costs you could lose in a bad situation. It is particularly worth it if your trip involves non-refundable costs, international travel, or travel to a remote area with limited healthcare facilities or regions prone to natural disasters.

Some of the primary reasons people buy trip insurance are to help offset:

• Emergency medical services and treatment
• Cancellations due to a sudden illness or serious health condition
• Emergency evacuation
• Loss of a friend or family member
• Compromised destinations
• Delayed or lost luggage
• Trip interruption or cancellation

What Is Not Covered By Travel Insurance?

The best insurance policies cover basic and common travel risks and bundle different coverage types related to trip cancellation, medical issues, luggage or trip delays, and more. Travel insurance is not meant to cover all foreseeable events, and every policy will address exclusions differently. Examples of potential limitations are:

• Tropical storms, hurricanes, and other dangerous weather conditions
• Certain medical issues
• Acts of war
• High-risk behavior involving drugs, unlawful acts, or riots
• Government-imposed restrictions

Travel insurance claims submitted without proper documentation or cancellation for reasons not covered by your travel policy are surefire ways to prevent coverage and reimbursement. This is why it is helpful to understand travel insurance coverage properly and take appropriate actions before assuming foul play.

Can You Cancel Travel Insurance and Get a Refund?

Most travel insurance carriers allow refunds, depending on when a policy is canceled and if there is a money-back guarantee. Most insurers ask that the policy be revoked during the review period outlined in the contract terms to qualify for a complete travel insurance refund. If the review period has passed, then policyholders might be eligible for a partial refund or not qualify for one at all.

What To Do if a Travel Insurance Claim Is Denied

If your travel insurance claim submitted for medical reasons, delays, cancellations, or any other reason was denied by your insurer, then remember that you have options. Both denials and rejections may happen for valid as well as unethical reasons. An insurance claim denial is not the end of the road; you can dig deeper to figure out whether you can still be reimbursed under your insurance.

Travel insurance claims are routinely denied when policyholders make common mistakes in their claim forms, or they mistakenly assume their policy covers their specific situation. Good faith denials happen when policyholders do not fill out their travel insurance claim form correctly, do not submit the right documents, or do not include info like contact details for follow-up questions.

In some cases, travel insurance companies may wrongly deny claims and stall the claims process. For instance, they might fail to investigate the claim or conduct proper due diligence. In such scenarios, it is advisable that policyholders adjust and resubmit their insurance claim, appeal the denial, or pursue legal action if insurers continue to illegally hold their payout.

How To Appeal a Travel Insurance Claim: 4 Steps

The travel insurance claim appeal process allows policyholders to ask the insurer to reconsider its decision. When appealing their travel insurance claim, policyholders must:

• Carefully Review the Denial Letter: Review the specific reasons for the denial to determine your next steps. Cross-check the reasons stated with your policy documents, additional emails, and other papers.
• Review Your Policy: Review the terms of your travel insurance policy and pay attention to disclaimers, damage limits, filing time limits, and submission requirements.
• Reach Out for Assistance: After carefully reviewing your policy, if you find the denial letter and policy terms do not line up, contact an insurance legal expert with experience in handling travel insurance claims for help.
• Gather Documentation and Keep Careful Records: Maintain communication records with your insurer, copies of denial letters, and other documentation regarding your claim.

How To Write a Travel Insurance Claim Letter

Sometimes, travelers have to file a trip insurance claim when their vacation does not go according to the plan. A travel insurance claim letter is a formal piece of communication between you and your insurance agency. Its purpose is to ask for reimbursement for covered damages or losses under the travel insurance policy. Therefore, it is important to craft a professional and detailed claim letter to increase your chances of a favorable resolution.

A claim letter should include the following information:

• Introduce Yourself. Include all relevant information of the person appealing (such as the policy number and contact information).
• Address the Denial. Summarize the date you received the letter and why the denial was made. Do not leave out any important details.
• Point Out the Error. Explain why you do not agree with the claims denial, based on your policy and pertinent information.
• Attach Extra Documents. Include all other documents supporting your trip insurance claim, such as photos, additional correspondence, transcripts of phone calls, etc.

How Long Does It Take To Get Reimbursed From Insurance?

Travel insurance companies generally process most claims within a few weeks. Sometimes, the insurance claims process office might have follow-up questions, thereby increasing the time you can expect to hear back. However, if you feel that your insurance claim is taking months to resolve without a proper reason, you should speak to an experienced insurance dispute lawyer. While every situation is different, policyholders should always keep careful and consistent notes as it will help them take informed legal action if necessary.

Travel Insurance Claims Advice on Documentation

You must be thorough with your documentation to enhance your chance of successful recovery. When you file a trip claim, your insurer will more likely refund travel insurance when you include the following information in your claim submission:

• Lost Luggage: Make a list of what was lost, along with the details and cost of each lost item.
• Job Loss: Request that your previous employer send you a notarized letter on company letterhead in the case of a trip cancellation due to job loss.
• Medical Emergency: Include detailed medical records in your claim if a health emergency kept you from traveling.
• Canceled/Delayed Flight: If you could not attend your trip because the flight was canceled or delayed, provide proof such as an email that relays the reasons (mechanical issues, weather, etc.).
• Receipts for Delayed Flights: You might want to keep receipts for necessary expenses incurred due to delays, like hotel stays, transportation costs, meals, and personal necessities.
• Police Reports: These reports can help substantiate claims made for stolen items or car troubles.
• Other Reports: You may include tickets for unused flights or excursions in your insurance claim.

Has a Formal Complaint Been Filed Against the Travel Supplier?

Formal complaints against travel suppliers are helpful in legal cases dealing with similar situations. The Van Rossem v. Penney Travel Service (April 15, 1985) case exemplifies travel insurance gone wrong.

In this case, a newlywed couple arranged a honeymoon trip with travel agent Penney Travel. The agent used a wholesaler, Lotus Tours, to book the reservation without the couple's knowledge. Lotus Tours abruptly went bankrupt before booking the client's reservation with SANDLES, which remained unpaid. When the case came before the court, the judge noted that "an agent who makes the contract in his own name for an undisclosed principal is liable as a principal." Here, the defendant had failed to disclose the identity of Lotus Tours, and so, it was responsible as the principal. The couple had paid $2,059 in advance. The judge awarded them reimbursement of $1,312, plus costs and disbursements.

In another lawsuit, Touhey v. Trans National Travel , a travel agent did not check to see if the hotel a client had booked was duly constructed. The plaintiff-client was awarded $25,000 in special damages because of the mistake.

What Are Bad Faith Insurance Practices?

Bad faith insurance refers to unethical insurance practices used by an insurer to delay, deny, or lowball policyholders. Examples of bad faith insurance practices include:

• Misrepresenting contract language to prevent a payout
• Failing to disclose policy limitations and exclusions to policyholders
• Making unreasonable demands, like excessive paperwork requests to prove a covered loss

Sometimes, only a seasoned insurance dispute lawyer who regularly deals with contract breaches and bad faith claims can identify honest errors from serious red flags and help a policyholder get paid their due.

How to File a Travel Insurance Claim: A Summary

Travelers usually plan their vacations down to the last detail. Travel insurance is a buffer for unplanned curveballs that can derail even the most meticulous plans, such as medical emergencies or misplaced luggage.

Insurance companies are explicit about what travel mishaps or unexpected events they will or will not cover, which is why it is crucial to understand policy limitations and how to properly file a travel insurance claim.

As a final snapshot, the key steps to filing a travel insurance claim include:

• Reviewing policy terms and exclusions.
• Gathering necessary documentation based on submission requirements.
• Submitting your claim according to the insurer's timing and filing guidelines.
• Filing an appeal if an insurance claim is wrongly denied.
• Consulting an experienced insurance dispute lawyer to assist with an intentionally stalled, denied, or undervalued claim.

Travel insurance claims can become challenging, depending on the situation and response from your insurer. When small bumps in the road become permanent roadblocks, it is helpful to know that qualified travel insurance claims attorneys are available to help frustrated policyholders recover their losses. 

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Are plane tickets refundable? Your guide to the refund policies

If your travel plans aren’t set in stone, you know that buying an ultra-cheap fare could be a gamble. Getting a full refund for a ticket you didn’t use – seems like a great choice when you really need some flexibility. Of course, there are trade-offs between non-refundable and refundable airline tickets. So, how to get a positive answer to the big question: are plane tickets refundable?

In this article

The differences between refundable and non-refundable tickets, understanding refundable airline ticket policies, does travel insurance cover non-refundable flight changes, refundable tickets faqs.

When you buy a non-refundable ticket, if you don’t or can’t fly, the airlines aren’t obliged to give you your money back. Buying a refundable plane ticket lets you cancel your trip and have your money refunded.

What’s the catch? Price. A fully refundable ticket can cost a lot more than a non-refundable one . For instance, I searched a flight from LAX to NYC and found fully refundable fares on one flight that were twice the price of non-refundable ones. Some airlines may also charge a fee to issue your refund, while some may only give you a short window to request it.

Keep in mind that regardless of the type of ticket you buy, if an airline cancels your flight you are entitled to a refund. And in recent years, the major US carriers have done away with change or cancellation fees in many instances, so you can often change your flight and only pay the difference in fare.

Airlines have their own contracts of carriage, which govern how they treat refunds, cancellations, and other events. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) holds the airlines accountable to their own contracts. DOT does, however, maintain some regulations that protect travelers on all airlines.

For instance, the so-called “ 24-hour rule ” allows anyone, even if they hold a non-refundable ticket, to cancel a reservation and receive a full refund within 24 hours of the time they booked the flight, as long as the ticket was purchased at least seven days before the flight’s scheduled departure.

If you look across airline cancellation policies, you’ll see that many mention this 24-hour policy as a bonus or part of their customer commitment. It is, however, a federal requirement. The rule requires airlines to either refund travelers or allow them to hold the fare without paying for the ticket for 24 hours; they’re not required to offer both hold and refund options.

If you decide to cancel your flight and get refunded, you may pay a higher fare if you rebook later. The 24-hour rule only applies if you book your ticket directly with the airline. Beyond this, the general rule is that airlines will refund non-refundable tickets if the cancellation or significant change is their fault, but not if you decide not to fly – even if you get sick.

Common refund policies among major airlines

Although federal regulations require airlines to stick to the 24-hour rule, airlines have their own policies about the fees they charge for cancellations. Most airlines offer both refundable and non-refundable tickets. If you buy a non-refundable ticket, you can generally change your travel dates, and some airlines waive change fees. As always, it’s best to check with the carrier’s own policy to see what you’re entitled to.

Are plane tickets refundable on Delta?

Delta sells both refundable and non-refundable tickets on domestic and international flights. You can cancel a non-refundable ticket and Delta won’t charge you a cancellation fee if you have a Delta Main Cabin ticket (i.e above Basic Economy) for travel within the US, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands, or originating in the US and traveling anywhere in the world.

Rather than refunding your money, it will issue you a credit to store for a future flight (just remember that you’ll still have to pay any fare differences on future flights). It does charge cancellation fees on non-refundable tickets in basic economy , or for tickets that originate outside the US, and those fees start at $99.

Always check the airlines’ policies to see if they’ll issue a credit for future travel. But check the terms: Sometimes you’ll have only a certain amount of time to use your credit.

Are plane tickets refundable on American Airlines?

If you bought a refundable ticket on American Airlines , they will process your refund back to your original card within 7 days . Like most other airlines, American does not refund non-refundable tickets, but it does allow you to cancel without a fee and store the value of your ticket as trip credit, which is good for one year from the date of issue.

American doesn’t charge change fees for domestic flights or travel originating in North or South America unless you bought Basic Economy, where no changes are permitted. However, for changes in a ticket originating outside North or South America, they may charge fees up to $750.

Are plane tickets refundable on Frontier?

Frontier Airlines’ policy differs from other carriers in that its tickets are non-refundable . Beyond the federally mandated refund within 24 hours of purchase, Frontier has a strict cancellation policy. If you cancel your ticket after the 24-hour window, you’ll be charged a $99 fee for each direction and the value of your ticket will be held as a credit.

You can add on refundability through Frontier’s bundled “Works” program, which gives you full refundability, a checked bag (which you would normally pay for), reserved seats, and no-fee flight changes. The bundled perks programs start at $99 per direction and vary per ticket. You can only buy them directly from the airline.

If you don’t have a fully refundable ticket, you can buy travel insurance that covers things like unexpected illness or family emergencies. Typically, standard travel insurance covers cancellations for a good reason, but not If you simply change your mind. If you’re the type to change on a dime, look for a cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) add-on , which will let you cancel for reasons beyond what most policies cover.

You’ll pay more for these, so it’s a good idea to compare the cost to buying a fully refundable ticket (CFAR often makes the most sense if you’re insuring a trip that includes multiple features, like flight, hotel, cruise, and so on). 

You may also want to check your credit card. If it has trip cancellation and interruption coverage, you could be reimbursed for the non-refundable amount of your trip.

Most airlines offer both refundable and non-refundable plane tickets, and each airline is free to establish its own rules and fees for cancellations and refunds. It’s always best to check an airline’s own policies before booking, as travel agencies or websites may have their own refund rules.

If you’d like more information on booking different kinds of fares or are looking to find out the differences between premium economy vs. economy seats and business class vs. first class flights , don’t forget to check the ultimate flight guide .

Yes, federal law mandates that airlines must give you a refund or hold your purchase within 24 hours of buying your ticket if it’s not for travel within a seven-day period and you bought it directly from the airline.

Consistent with the 24-hour rule, if you see a fare go on sale, you can cancel your ticket and buy a new one at a lower price. Some airlines offer limited price guarantees. Or if your flight is eligible for a free change or cancellation, you can have the airline issue you a travel credit which you then use for a lower-priced ticket.

Only fully refundable tickets will be refunded to your credit card (and some airlines charge a fee for this). Non-refundable tickets can be changed, sometimes with a fee, and their value is usually stored as a credit.

Airlines are not obliged to refund you if you cancel a non-refundable ticket for personal reasons, including being late or getting sick. Learning how early you need to get to the airport can be a life changer.

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Your guide to Chase's trip insurance coverage

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Chase credit cards are often top of mind when travelers are booking trips because of their superior protections. Chase is one of very few major U.S. credit card issuers that offers a full suite of travel protections across its premium credit cards, including trip delay reimbursement and trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

Trip delay reimbursement covers reasonable out-of-pocket expenses due to a lengthy trip delay that is not covered by the common carrier. Trip cancellation/interruption insurance provides reimbursement for covered travel expenses when you have to cancel a trip or end it early.

Now that more people are getting vaccinated and destinations are reopening borders to tourists, you may be planning trips for later this year or into next. This guide will walk through which Chase credit cards have these benefits, what is currently covered and how you can file a successful claim.

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Chase cards offering trip delay and trip cancellation/interruption insurance

Here is an overview of the Chase cards that offer trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation/interruption insurance or both:

The information for the United TravelBank Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: Best credit cards for trip cancellation and interruption insurance

What is covered by trip cancellation/interruption insurance?

You can find the full terms and conditions of what is generally covered on your specific card in your Guide to Benefits, which can be found through your Chase account online. I'll use the Chase Sapphire Reserve Guide to Benefits as an example.

Here is a rundown of the circumstances covered by Chase's trip cancellation/interruption insurance:

• Accidental bodily injury, loss of life or sickness experienced by you or a traveling companion that prevents you or a travel companion from traveling on the trip.
• Accidental bodily injury, loss of life or sickness experienced by an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion when it's considered life-threatening, requires hospitalization or requires care by you or your traveling companion.
• Severe weather that prevents a "reasonable and prudent person" from beginning or continuing a trip (terms about what constitutes as qualifying severe weather can be found in your Guide to Benefits).
• Named storm warning.
• Change in military orders for you or your spouse.
• Jury duty or a court subpoena, neither of which can be waived.
• You or your traveling companion's place of permanent residence being made uninhabitable, being burglarized or damaged by fire or flood.
• You or your traveling companion's lodging accommodations at the destination of the trip being made uninhabitable.
• Death or hospitalization of you or your traveling companion's host at destination.
• Quarantine of you or your traveling companion imposed by a physician or by a competent governmental authority having jurisdiction, due to health reasons.
• An organized strike affected public transportation which causes you or your traveling companion to either miss 20% or more of your scheduled trip or miss the departure of a prepaid cruise or scheduled tour (booked through a tour operator).
• Terrorism (there are exceptions here; exact terms on what types of terrorist incidents are covered for trip cancellation and interruption insurance are listed in your Guide to Benefits).

Chase does provide an extensive list of things that are not covered by trip cancellation/interruption insurance as well:

• Change in plans, financial circumstances and business obligations.
• Preexisting conditions.
• Any loss due to the voluntary surrender of unused vouchers, tickets, credits, coupons or travel privileges available prior to their expiration date.
• Travel arrangements scheduled to take place after the 26th week of pregnancy, or when a multiple pregnancy (such as twins or triplets) or pregnancy associated with an assisted reproductive program (such as in vitro fertilization) occurs prior to the initial deposit date or booking date of the trip.
• Any loss for a trip booked while on a waiting list for a specified medical treatment.
• Medical travel.
• Disinclination to travel due to civil unrest.
• Failure of you or your travel companion to obtain necessary visas, passports or requisite travel documents.
• Illegal activity.
• Suicide, attempted suicide or intentional self-inflicted injury.
• Drug use at the time of the loss (except if the drug is taken and used as prescribed by a physician).
• Disinclination to travel due to an epidemic or pandemic.
• Financial insolvency of a common carrier, travel agency, tour operator or travel supplier.
• War (not including terrorism).
• For trip cancellation only: Trips booked to any area known to be associated with terrorist activity.
• For trip interruption only: Travel arrangements canceled or changed by a travel supplier unless it's the result of severe weather or an organized strike that affects public transportation.

You'll note that "disinclination to travel due to an epidemic or pandemic" is specifically listed as not covered. At the time of writing, Chase had given no update that would change this, which means canceling a trip you can go on but just don't want to is not covered by your Chase travel insurance .

If you do find yourself canceling or cutting a covered trip short, here are the basic guidelines provided by Chase on what types of expenses are covered for trip cancellation/interruption:

Non-Refundable prepaid travel expenses charged by a Travel Supplier (Travel Agency, Tour Operator, Provider of Lodging, rental car agency, Rented Recreational Vehicle Provider, commercial recreational excursion provider, Cruise Line, airline, railroad, and other Common Carriers). Eligible Travel Expenses also means redeposit fees imposed by a Rewards program administrator. Eligible Travel Expenses does not include Event Tickets or prepaid fees to theme parks, museums, golf courses, or other points of interest (unless such expenses are included as part of a travel package).

What is covered by trip delay insurance?

Trip delay insurance provides reimbursement for expenses incurred when your trip is delayed due to a covered hazard for more than six hours, or if a delay requires an overnight stay. It does not include expenses that are covered by the airline or other common carrier responsible for the delay. You and your family members are covered when you put at least part of a trip on your eligible Chase card.

Covered expenses include meals, lodging, toiletries and medication, but do not include any prepaid expenses related to a trip such as a tour or activity fees.

Chase defines covered hazards as equipment failure, inclement weather, strike and hijacking/skyjacking. The Guide to Benefits specifically exempts any delay due to a covered hazard that was made public or made known to you prior to your departure.

Filing a claim

When you have a delay or trip cancellation/interruption that you think qualifies for coverage, you can file a claim through Chase's online claims center.

Trip delay reimbursement requires the following documentation:

• Expense receipts – Keep receipts from all of the expenses incurred due to the delay. Meal expenses more than $50 per covered traveler must be itemized.
• Fare receipt – You'll need a receipt that proves you purchased at least some of the common carrier fare on your card.
• Multiple payment methods – If you used more than one method of payment for your fare, you must provide documentation outlining any additional currency, voucher, points or other payment method used. For example, if you used points to pay for your flight and just used your card for taxes and fees, you'd need to show documentation to that effect.
• Common carrier statement – This is proof that the trip was delayed, along with the reason for the delay.
• Original itinerary – You'll have to submit a copy of your original ticket.
• Settlement from carrier – You are required to file a claim with the common carrier before submitting a claim with Chase. You'll need a copy of the settlement from the carrier, your insurance and any other reimbursement you'll receive from another party.

Trip cancellation/interruption insurance requires slightly different documentation:

• Completed and signed claim form — You can get a claim form by calling your benefit administrator, or by visiting Chase's online filing application.
• Original itinerary – You'll have to submit a copy of your original travel itinerary, including any prepaid activities that you are including in your claim.
• Confirmation of cancellation/interruption – You have to provide documentation that gives the reason for the cancellation/interruption, such as an official doctor's note, death certificate, official military orders or other supporting documentation.
• Attending physician's statement – This a document provided by a physician or medical facility that essentially acts as proof that you were treated by them.
• Carrier cancellation/refund policy – You'll have to submit a copy of the cancellation or refund policies of the common carrier, tour operator or travel supplier.
• Expense receipts – Keep the receipts of expenses incurred due to your trip interruption.
• Monthly billing statement – Rather than a fare receipt, you are required to submit a monthly billing statement showing the last four digits of the account number as proof of prepaid travel.
• Any unused vouchers, tickets or coupons — You can add these expenses to your claim, but you'll need to be able to provide proof of purchase.

When you fill out the claims form online, you will be asked to upload these documents. You can scan in paper receipts when needed. Typically, you have up to 90 days to file a claim after a delay or cancellation.

Proof of flight delay or cancellation

One of the documents required to file for trip delay reimbursement is a verification form that outlines the reason for the delay or cancellation by the carrier. You can typically get this at the airport when the delay or cancellation is announced, but keep in mind that it may require a supervisor. Each major U.S. airline also has a process for requesting this information after the fact.

Here is an overview of the process different U.S. airlines require in order for you to receive a delay or cancellation verification form:

Bottom line

Having a card with trip insurance can save you hundreds of dollars when unexpected hiccups happen in your travel plans, but it can be confusing to know what exactly is covered and the right documentation you need to file a claim.

Nothing is worse than getting through an entire claims process only to be denied or have to start over because you don't have the required documentation for the insurance provider. Before you start filing a claim, make sure you have the documents listed above. Keep in mind that a provider may ask for additional documentation related to the incident, so you may have to collect receipts and other forms to help your case.