How To Cancel Train Ticket And Get Refund: IRCTC E-Ticket & Counter Ticket Cancellation Rules Explained

What if you are no longer planning to travel by train? Can you cancel your ticket and get your money back? Yes, you can cancel your train ticket and receive a refund. However, the refund amount depends on two important factors - when you cancel the ticket and the status of your ticket (confirmed, RAC, waitlisted) at the time of cancellation.

If you decide to cancel your ticket, you must use the same platform you originally used to book it. Let's see how the cancellation process differs for online (e-tickets) and counter tickets.

How To Cancel An E-Ticket (Booked Online)

If you have booked your ticket through the IRCTC website, mobile app, or any other online platform such as Paytm, follow these steps:

1. Log In

Visit the IRCTC website/app or the booking portal where you purchased the ticket.

2. Find Your Ticket

Go to 'My Transactions' → 'Booked Ticket History' or 'My Bookings' section.

3. Select and Cancel

Choose the ticket you want to cancel. You can cancel all passengers or select specific passengers in case of partial cancellation. Click on 'Cancel Ticket'.

4. Confirm Cancellation

Select the reason for cancellation and confirm. The system will display the refund amount and cancellation charges before final confirmation.

5. Check Confirmation

Once cancelled, you will receive confirmation via SMS and email. The refund will be credited back to the original payment method.

How To Cancel A Counter Ticket (PRS Ticket)

If you have purchased your ticket from a railway reservation counter:

1. Visit a PRS Counter

Go to any Indian Railways Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counter.

2. Provide Ticket Details

Share your PNR number, train number, and journey details with the staff.

3. Receive Cancellation Receipt

After cancellation, you will be given a receipt. The refund (after applicable charges) will be processed as per railway rules.

Cancellation Charges For Confirmed Tickets

The refund amount depends on how early you cancel the ticket before the train's departure:

• More than 48 hours before departure: Rs 120 per passenger deducted
• Between 12 and 48 hours before departure: 25 per cent of base fare (minimum Rs 120) deducted
• Between 4 and 12 hours before departure: 50 per cent of base fare (minimum Rs 120) deducted
• Less than 4 hours before departure or after chart preparation (whichever is earlier): No refund
• After train departure: No refund

Important Rules For E-Ticket Cancellation

• E-tickets can be cancelled online only through the IRCTC website or app.
• Cancellation at railway counters is not allowed for e-tickets.
• E-tickets can be cancelled only until the chart preparation of the train.
• After cancellation, the refund is automatically credited to the account used for booking.
• In case of partial cancellation, make sure to download or print a fresh e-reservation slip.

In short, it is always better to cancel your ticket as early as possible to minimise cancellation charges and maximise your refund. Make sure to check your ticket status and the train's departure time before initiating the cancellation process.