IRCTC - How Much Refund Will Receive on Train Ticket Cancellation? Know the Complete Rules

IRCTC: Today, train travel in India has become an important part of everyday life. Millions of people travel daily in various classes, including AC, sleeper, and general coaches. Booking tickets before travel is essential for a safe and comfortable journey. However, sometimes, due to circumstances, travel must be cancelled. In such situations, the biggest question on travellers’ minds is how much money will be refunded if they cancel their tickets. Ticket cancellation and refund rules in India are set by the Indian Railways, and online ticket refunds are processed through IRCTC.

How are ticket cancellation charges determined?

Train ticket cancellation charges depend on how many hours before the train’s scheduled departure. The earlier the cancellation, the greater the chance of receiving a refund. If a ticket is cancelled at the last minute, the refund amount is reduced because the seat is less likely to be refilled.

How much refund will be received upon ticket cancellation?

If a passenger cancels a confirmed ticket 48 hours before the scheduled departure time of the train, they are required to pay a fixed flat cancellation charge. The charge is approximately ₹240 for AC First Class or Executive Class, approximately ₹200 for AC 2 Tier or First Class, approximately ₹180 for AC 3 Tier or AC Chair Car or AC 3 Economy, approximately ₹120 for Sleeper Class, and approximately ₹60 for Second Class.

If the ticket is cancelled within 48 hours but less than 12 hours before the train departure time, approximately 25 percent of the total fare is deducted. However, this charge cannot be less than the minimum cancellation fee.

If a ticket is cancelled less than 12 hours before the scheduled departure of the train and up to four hours before the departure time, or before the chart preparation, approximately 50 percent of the total fare is deducted. The chart preparation time depends on the train’s origin station or the previous chart station.

E-Ticket Cancellation Rules After Chart Preparation

If the train chart has been prepared, e-tickets cannot be cancelled directly. In such a situation, passengers must file a TDR. The refund decision is then made based on an audit by the railway and ticketing system, and passengers can track the status online.

Important Advice for Passengers

Always be aware of the train’s departure time and chart preparation time before cancelling a ticket. This can help minimise the loss of a refund. Early cancellations are more likely to result in a higher refund.