How Much Refund Can I Get on Cancellation of a Train Ticket?

If you find yourself needing to cancel a train journey due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a family emergency, you may be wondering about the refund process. Indian Railways allows passengers to cancel their tickets, but it is essential to understand the cancellation policies to know how much money you can expect to receive back. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the refund amount upon cancellation of train tickets and outlines the procedures for cancelling tickets booked through various platforms, including HDFC Bank's PayZapp.

The amount deducted upon cancellation of a train ticket varies based on several factors, including the class of travel, timing of the cancellation, and the type of ticket purchased. Below is a detailed breakdown of the cancellation charges applicable to different ticket categories:

1. Regular Tickets

For confirmed regular tickets, the cancellation charges are structured as follows:

• More than 48 hours before departure:

• AC First Class/Executive Class: Rs 240 + GST
• AC 2 Tier/First Class: Rs 200 + GST
• AC 3 Tier/AC Chair Car/AC 3 Economy: Rs 180 + GST
• Sleeper Class: Rs 120
• Second Class: Rs 60

• Between 48 hours and 12 hours before departure:

• 25% of the total fare is deducted.

• Within 12 hours of departure or after the train has left:

• 50% of the fare is deducted.

2. Tatkal Tickets

Tatkal tickets, which are meant for urgent travel, are subject to different rules:

• Confirmed Tatkal tickets are non-refundable but can be cancelled.
• For a Tatkal waitlisted ticket, the cancellation charge is Rs 60 for 3AC and ₹65 for 2AC, along with a convenience fee of Rs 35 and a 2% transaction fee. Therefore, you could lose approximately Rs 100 to ₹200 depending on the fare and distance.

3. Waitlisted Tickets

The refund policy for waitlisted tickets is as follows:

• Up to four hours before departure:

• You can cancel and receive a full refund minus a nominal charge of Rs 20 + GST per passenger.

• 30 minutes before departure:

• A charge of Rs 60 + GST per passenger applies.

Waitlisted tickets can also be cancelled via the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters or the IRCTC website, as well as affiliated mobile apps like PayZapp. If all passengers remain on the waiting list after the first charting, the tickets are automatically cancelled, and the full amount is refunded without any cancellation charge.

4. Partially Confirmed Tickets

For tickets where some passengers are confirmed, and others are on the waiting list, the following cancellation charges apply:

• 1AC and EC Class: Rs 240
• 2AC and FC Class: Rs 200
• 3AC and CC Class: Rs 180
• Sleeper Class: Rs 120
• Second Class: Rs 60

5. Special and Premium Trains

For special or premium trains, the cancellation charge is 50% of the fare if the ticket is cancelled up to 24 hours before departure.

Note: Cancellation charges are subject to change. It is advisable to check the IRCTC website for the most current guidelines regarding refunds and cancellations.

HDFC Bank’s PayZapp provides a straightforward way to cancel train tickets and receive refunds directly to your payment source. Here’s how to cancel train tickets via the PayZapp app:

1. Log in to PayZapp: Open the PayZapp app and sign in with your credentials.
2. Navigate to the ‘Shop’ Section: Click on the ‘Shop’ tab and select ‘Trains.’
3. View Your Booked Tickets: Go to the profile button and click on ‘My Orders/Savings’ to see your bookings.
4. Select the Ticket to Cancel: Choose the ticket you wish to cancel and click on ‘Cancel.’
5. Confirm the Cancellation: Once the cancellation is successful, the refund will be credited back to your original payment method within 5-7 business days.

In addition to PayZapp, you can cancel your train tickets through various methods:

• Online: Use the IRCTC website or mobile app to cancel e-tickets easily.
• Reservation Counter: Visit a railway reservation counter to cancel tickets booked offline.
• Authorised Travel Agents: Seek assistance from IRCTC-authorised travel agents for cancellation services.

Cancelling train tickets can be a complex process, but understanding the rules and utilising the right tools can make it easier. PayZapp simplifies the cancellation of train tickets while also offering a convenient platform for booking. By linking your existing IRCTC account with PayZapp, you can enjoy instant rewards, cashback, and discounts on your travel bookings.

For an efficient experience in managing your railway ticket bookings and cancellations, download PayZapp today!

*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.