If you’ve ever booked a flight and then had your plans change, you know how stressful it feels — especially if the ticket was “non-refundable.” For seniors who want flexibility in travel, understanding Delta’s rules can make a big difference. The good news? Even if your ticket is non-refundable, Delta often gives you options to keep your money from going to waste.
👉 If you’d like personal help reviewing your ticket, you can call 877-297-0699 and speak with a Delta representative for up-to-date guidance.
When Delta labels a ticket “non-refundable,” it means you generally won’t get your money back in cash if you cancel your flight. But that doesn’t mean your money disappears. Instead, Delta usually lets you:
Rebook your flight for a different date.
Receive an eCredit (a digital travel credit you can apply to future flights).
📌 Quick Note: Refundable tickets are usually more expensive but allow cash refunds. Non-refundable fares are cheaper but come with restrictions.
Instead of returning money to your bank account, Delta issues eCredits. These credits work like gift cards — you can use them for your next trip, sometimes even for a different destination.
Tip: Seniors may want to print or write down the eCredit confirmation number in case logging into the Delta app feels tricky.
Delta has removed many domestic and international change fees, which is great news. However, if the new ticket is more expensive, you’ll still pay the difference.
According to Department of Transportation (DOT) reports, airlines eliminated billions in fees after 2020, giving passengers — especially seniors — more peace of mind.
Delta sometimes makes exceptions for unexpected medical issues or emergencies. If you provide documentation (like a doctor’s note), they may waive certain restrictions.
Real-world story: A senior traveler from Texas shared how Delta worked with her when a sudden surgery forced her to cancel. Instead of losing her ticket, she received a travel credit for future use.
Here are the main paths available if your travel plans fall through:
Rebook the same route later (using your eCredit).
Apply the credit to a new destination (you’ll pay if the fare is higher).
Transfer credits to family members — allowed in some cases, but not always.
💡 Visual idea: A simple flowchart showing “Can’t travel? → Rebook → Use eCredit → Explore waiver options.”
Use a travel credit card that includes trip insurance for extra protection.
Always read the fare rules before purchasing.
Save Delta’s number (877-297-0699) in your phone contacts for quick support.
For long or medically uncertain trips, consider a refundable fare for peace of mind.
Can I get a refund if Delta cancels my flight?
Yes. If Delta cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund — even on a non-refundable ticket.
Do eCredits expire?
Yes, most expire within a year, though Delta has extended timelines for some pandemic-era credits.
Can seniors transfer credits to family members?
Sometimes, depending on the type of ticket. Always confirm with Delta.
What if I miss my flight?
Non-refundable tickets are usually forfeited unless you rebook the same day.
Does Delta offer senior discounts for refundable tickets?
Not consistently, but certain routes or partner programs may have offers.
While “non-refundable” might sound final, Delta usually offers ways to reuse the value of your ticket. Whether through an eCredit, a waiver for emergencies, or flexible rebooking, you don’t always lose your money. Planning ahead and knowing the rules can save stress down the road.
Call 877-297-0699 to confirm what your non-refundable ticket qualifies for.
Check your Delta account online for unused eCredits.
Ask your doctor about trip insurance if health concerns may affect travel.
Share this guide with friends or family who also fly Delta.