Airline policy · United Airlines

United Cancelled Flight Rights

United is O'Hare's primary carrier, operating out of Terminal 1 and part of Terminal 2. If your United flight is cancelled or severely delayed, here's how its policies work. Policies are applied at gate-agent discretion and change over time — always confirm with United directly.

Last verified: September 2026

Need help now? United customer service: 1-800-864-8331; app chat available 24/7 in the Help Center.

Rebooking

  • United rebooks on the next available United or partner flight at no charge.
  • Same-day confirmed changes are free for cancellations or delays.
  • If United cannot get you there within 3–4 hours of your original arrival, it may endorse you to another airline at its discretion.

Meal vouchers

  • Issued for controllable delays (maintenance, crew), typically $7–$15 per person per meal.
  • Not provided for weather or air-traffic-control delays.
  • Redeemable at most Terminal 1 and 2 restaurants.

Hotel vouchers

  • Provided for overnight controllable cancellations or delays.
  • United partners with hotels including the Hilton O'Hare and others nearby.
  • The voucher covers the room but not transportation (transportation may be covered separately).
  • You must request it at the United service desk.

Receipt reimbursement

  • United has a formal reimbursement process for controllable issues.
  • Submit receipts at united.com/customer-service/refund-request or through the airline app within 30 days.

Questions to ask the gate agent

Bring this list to the counter — it takes thirty seconds to read and makes sure nothing is left on the table.

  • Is this delay or cancellation due to a controllable issue or weather?
  • Can I get a meal voucher for this delay?
  • If I'm stuck overnight, does United cover my hotel?
  • Can you put me on the next available flight — including partner airlines?
  • Do I need to stay at a specific hotel for a voucher, or book my own?
  • Will my rebooked itinerary be protected (confirmed seat, not standby)?

FAQ

Does United pay for my hotel if my flight is cancelled?

Only for overnight cancellations within United's control (maintenance, crew). Weather- and ATC-caused cancellations are not covered. Request a voucher at the United service desk; the voucher covers the room but not transportation.

Will United give me a meal voucher?

For controllable delays, yes — typically $7–$15 per person per meal. Weather and ATC delays are not eligible.

How do I get reimbursed for expenses?

Submit receipts through united.com/customer-service/refund-request or via the app within 30 days. Save every receipt and the cancellation reason you were given.

Can United put me on another airline?

At its discretion, if United can't get you to your destination within about 3–4 hours of your original arrival.

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