IRCTC Update: New rules for ticket cancellation and refund policy effective from April 2026
Indian Railways has updated its ticket cancellation and refund rules under the Reform Express initiative. These changes aim to reduce last-minute cancellations and make tickets more available for genuine passengers. The revised rules were implemented in phases between April 1 and April 15, 2026, changing the time windows for refunds.
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What are the new cancellation refund rules?
The refund amount now depends on when the passenger cancels the ticket before the train departure. The new structure is as follows:
| Time of Cancellation | Refund Deduction |
|---|---|
| More than 72 hours before departure | Minimal flat cancellation charge |
| Between 72 and 24 hours before departure | 25% of ticket fare |
| Between 24 and 8 hours before departure | 50% of ticket fare |
| Less than 8 hours before departure | No refund for confirmed tickets |
When should you file a TDR for a refund?
A Ticket Deposit Receipt (TDR) is needed in specific cases to claim money back. For e-tickets, most refunds are now automatic, but TDR is still required for counter tickets and specific issues.
- Train Delay: If a train is late by more than 3 hours, you can get a full refund if the TDR is filed before the train departs from your station.
- AC Failure: If the AC does not work or you are shifted to a lower class, you can file a TDR for the fare difference with a TTE certificate.
- Train Diverted: If the train is diverted and skips your station, file a TDR within 72 hours of the scheduled time.
Important points about TDR and Charting
Railway authorities have changed the chart preparation time to 9-12 hours before departure to help passengers with waitlisted tickets. While automatic refunds for cancelled e-tickets are fast, TDR processing can take 60 to 90 days. Once approved, the amount usually reaches the bank account within 3 to 7 days.