Cancellation Charges for Confirmed IRCTC Tickets: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to traveling on confirmed tickets booked through the Indian Railways Customer Care (IRCTC), it's crucial to understand the cancellation charges and policies. These charges vary based on the type of ticket and the time at which you decide to cancel your booking. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the fees and requirements.
Understanding the Cancellation Charges
IRCTC charges apply to confirmed tickets based on the type of ticket and the timing of the cancellation. Additionally, there is an administrative fee that is always charged.
Sleeper Class
Charges: Rs. 120
These charges apply if the ticket is cancelled more than 48 hours before the scheduled departure of the train.
3AC (Third AC)
Charges: Rs. 180
Again, this applies to cancellations more than 48 hours before the scheduled departure of the train.
2AC (Second AC)
Charges: Rs. 200
These charges also apply if the ticket is cancelled more than 48 hours before the train's departure.
Cancelation Charges before Chart Preparation
Chart preparation is the crucial step in the train journey, as it means the reservation has been finalized and can't be easily cancelled without specific procedures.
More Than 48 Hours Before Departure
Fare Rs. 240 for AC First Class/Second Class Fare Rs. 200 for AC 2 Tier/First Class Fare Rs. 180 for AC 3 Tier/AC Chair Car/AC 3 Economy Fare Rs. 120 for Sleeper Class Fare Rs. 60 for Second Class (These rates are per passenger.)Between 48 and 12 Hours Before Departure
In this period, the cancellation charges are 25% of the ticket fare, subject to the minimum flat rate mentioned above.
Less Than 12 Hours Before Departure
For cancellations within the last 12 hours before the train's departure, the charge is 50% of the fare, again subject to the minimum cancellation charges mentioned earlier.
Note: Chart preparation time is the duration from the train origin station or from the previous chart preparation station.
Cancelation Charges after Chart Preparation
Once the reservation chart is prepared, the rules for cancellation become more stringent. Here are the guidelines:
For Normal Users
E-tickets cannot be cancelled after chart preparation. Users are advised to use the online TDR (Ticket Cancellation Request) filing process. The status of the refund can be tracked through the IRCTC’s tracking service.
No Refunds for Confirmed Reservations
No refund of fare will be granted if the ticket is not cancelled or a TDR is not filed online at least four hours before the scheduled departure of the train. This rule applies to all e-tickets.
No Refunds for RAC and Waiting List Tickets
For RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) and waiting list tickets, no refund of fare will be granted if the ticket is not cancelled or a TDR is not filed online at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure of the train.
Family or Group Tickets
In the case of travel for more than one passenger, if some passengers have confirmed reservation and others are on RAC or waiting list, a full refund of fare minus the administrative charge will be provided if the tickets are cancelled online or an online TDR is filed for all passengers at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure of the train.
Tatkal Tickets
No Refund on Confirmed Tatkal Tickets
Cancellations of confirmed Tatkal tickets are penalized fully. No partial refunds are provided for contingent cancellations or tickets holding waiting list status.
Partial Cancellation Allowed
Partial cancellation is allowed for Tatkal tickets, but only following the existing Railway rules.
Cancellation of Cancelled Trains
In case the train is canceled, the cancellation policy may vary. It’s best to check with IRCTC directly for the specific guidelines.
Conclusion
Understanding the cancellation charges and procedures is crucial to avoid unnecessary financial losses. Always ensure that you follow the appropriate steps and deadlines to keep your ticket bookings secure and manageable.
For any further questions or guidelines, IRCTC’s official website is the best resource to refer to.