How Southwest changes & cancellations generally work
The rules in plain language. Your exact fare always governs — we'll confirm it on the call.
Southwest is one of the few large US carriers that generally does not charge a change fee. Move to a different flight and you'd pay only the difference in fare if the new one costs more — or keep the difference as credit if it costs less.
The lowest 2026 fare is the most restricted — changes are limited and it behaves differently from Choice fares. Don't assume your options are gone; call and we'll read your ticket's actual rules.
Under the US rule, you can cancel any Southwest fare within 24 hours of booking for a full refund to your original form of payment — this includes Basic.
Outside 24 hours, cancelling a nonrefundable fare typically converts its value to Southwest flight credit you can use toward a future trip, rather than cash. Credit carries usage terms.
You're generally entitled to rebooking on the next available flight or a refund to your original payment — even on a nonrefundable fare.
Policies vary by fare, route and how your ticket was issued. We never publish change or cancellation amounts because yours depends on your ticket — an agent tells you the exact figure before anything is charged.
Southwest fares and how flexible they are
Where your ticket sits decides how easily it changes. Higher = more flexible.
Refund or flight credit? What you'll likely get
It comes down to who cancelled and your fare.
You cancel by choice
Most common
- Nonrefundable fares convert to Southwest flight credit, not cash
- Basic is the most restricted fare to change
- Flight credit carries usage terms
- Refundable fares return to your original payment
Southwest cancels or reschedules
Better for you
- A refund to your original payment is generally available
- Applies even to nonrefundable fares
- Or free rebooking on the next available flight
- Significant schedule changes usually count
Use the 24-hour rule. The US risk-free cancellation refunds any Southwest fare cancelled within 24 hours of booking — including Basic. If you booked today and aren't sure, call us before the window closes.
Frequently asked
Does Southwest charge a fee to change my flight?+
Will I get money back or flight credit?+
I booked a few hours ago — can I cancel free?+
Do you charge to change it for me?+
Contact options
Reach Southwest directly, or let us handle it.
Contact Southwest Airlines directly
The airline's own official channels — free.
More Southwest Airlines help
Related guides.