How to Get a Full Refund from Airbnb

Navigating the process of obtaining a full refund from Airbnb can sometimes feel complex, but understanding the platform’s policies and procedures is key to a successful outcome. Whether you’re canceling a reservation before your stay or dealing with issues upon arrival, this guide will walk you through the steps and considerations for securing a refund.

Understanding Airbnb’s Cancellation Policies

Airbnb offers various cancellation policies that hosts can set for their listings. These policies dictate the terms under which guests can cancel and receive a refund. As of October 1, 2025, all standard cancellation policies for stays under 28 nights will include a 24-hour cancellation period, allowing guests to cancel for a full refund, including taxes, provided the reservation was made at least seven days before check-in.

Common Cancellation Policies:

• Flexible: Guests can cancel up to 24 hours before check-in for a full refund, minus service fees.
• Moderate: Guests can cancel up to 5 days before check-in for a full refund, minus service fees.
• Firm: Guests can cancel up to 30 days before check-in for a full refund. Cancellations between 7 and 30 days before check-in receive a 50% refund, and cancellations within 7 days receive no refund.
• Strict: Guests must cancel within 48 hours of booking, and the cancellation must occur at least 14 days before check-in for a full refund. Cancellations between 7 and 14 days before check-in result in a 50% refund.
• Limited: This new policy allows guests to cancel up to 14 days before check-in for a full refund. Cancellations between 7 and 14 days before check-in will result in a 50% refund.
• Super Strict (30/60 Days): These invitation-only policies require guests to cancel at least 30 or 60 days in advance for a full refund.

It’s crucial to review the specific cancellation policy of your chosen listing before booking, as this will determine your eligibility for a refund if you need to cancel.

Getting a Refund Before Your Stay

If your travel plans change, the first step to getting a refund is to cancel your reservation through your Airbnb account. The process is as follows:

1. Log in to your Airbnb account.
2. Navigate to the “Trips” section.
3. Select the reservation you wish to cancel.
4. Scroll down to “Reservation details” and find the “Cancel reservation” option.
5. Follow the prompts, which may include selecting a reason for cancellation and sending a message to your host.

The refund amount you receive will depend on the host’s cancellation policy and when you cancel. For cancellations made within the allowed window, the refund is typically processed automatically.

Getting a Refund After Check-in or Due to Issues

If you encounter issues with your Airbnb accommodation upon arrival or during your stay, you may be eligible for a refund under Airbnb’s Guest Refund Policy. This policy covers situations such as:

• Misrepresentation of the Listing: The property is significantly different from the description, photos, or amenities advertised.
• Safety or Health Hazards: The accommodation is unclean, unsafe, or has issues like vermin or undisclosed pets.
• Lack of Access: The host fails to provide reasonable access to the booked listing.
• Host Cancellation: The host cancels the booking shortly before your stay or fails to provide access.

Steps to Request a Refund for Issues:

1. Contact Your Host Immediately: Before contacting Airbnb, you must first try to resolve the issue directly with your host. Message them through the Airbnb platform to explain the problem.
2. Document Everything: Take clear photos and videos of the issues you encounter. This documentation is crucial evidence.
3. Report to Airbnb: If the host does not resolve the issue within a reasonable time, or if you cannot reach an agreement, report the problem to Airbnb. You generally have 72 hours after discovering the issue to report it.
4. Use the Resolution Center: Submit a request through Airbnb’s Resolution Center. You can find this option within your reservation details.
5. Provide Evidence: Upload all your documentation (photos, videos, messages with the host) to support your claim.
6. Request Airbnb Mediation: If you and the host cannot reach an agreement, you can request Airbnb to mediate the dispute.

Airbnb will review your case and evidence to determine your eligibility for a full or partial refund, or alternative accommodation.

Extenuating Circumstances

Airbnb’s Extenuating Circumstances Policy provides flexibility for cancellations due to unforeseen events beyond a guest’s or host’s control. These may include:

• Serious illness or injury.
• Death of a host, guest, or their immediate family member.
• Natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes, earthquakes).
• Political unrest or war.
• Government travel restrictions or mandates.
• Foreseeable weather events that lead to other covered issues, such as large-scale utility outages.

To claim extenuating circumstances, you must contact Airbnb as soon as possible and provide supporting documentation. If approved, you may receive a full or partial refund, or be able to cancel without penalty.

How Long Do Airbnb Refunds Take?

If you are eligible for a refund, it is typically processed automatically within 10 days of your refund request. However, refunds can be remitted much sooner, often within 24 hours, if you paid using specific methods like Airbnb gift credits or PayPal.

Important Considerations and Tips

• Review Policies Carefully: Always read the specific cancellation and refund policies for your booking before confirming.
• Communicate Clearly: Maintain open and professional communication with your host throughout the process.
• Document Everything: Keep records of all communications, photos, and videos related to any issues.
• Act Promptly: Adhere to the timeframes for reporting issues and submitting refund requests.
• Understand Host Penalties: Hosts face penalties for cancellations, which can influence their willingness to accommodate refund requests outside of policy.
• Contact Airbnb Support: If you cannot resolve an issue with your host or have questions about the refund process, Airbnb’s customer support can be reached at 1-844-234-2500.

By understanding these policies and following the outlined steps, you can increase your chances of successfully obtaining a full refund from Airbnb when necessary.