In this article, we will focus on LOT vouchers and how to exchange them for cash.
It is essential to understand that vouchers are not equivalent to flight compensation, but are often provided by airlines as a means of compensating passengers for flight disruptions. The article will provide details on LOT vouchers, why they are given out, and your rights as a passenger. However, it’s crucial to remember that accepting vouchers is not required in most cases and that flight compensation and vouchers are not interchangeable.
1. LOT Vouchers
Airline vouchers are essentially a form of payment that can be used towards the purchase of airline tickets or other travel-related expenses. These vouchers are typically issued by airlines as compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or other inconveniences experienced by passengers.
LOT is not an exception. If your LOT flight was delayed or cancelled, you may be offered a LOT voucher, too. However, it is not mandatory for you to accept these vouchers as a form of compensation or refund.
2. LOT Voucher (Refund/Compensation)
What has happened to your flight?
Why you have been given a voucher?
2.1 Your Flight Was Cancelled
If you’ve received a LOT voucher as a refund for cancellation or flight compensation, it’s likely that your flight has been cancelled. In this case, the airline is required to offer you a choice between a refund or an alternate flight to your final destination. The alternate flight can be with LOT or another airline and should always be free of charge.
In some cases, you may also be eligible for compensation for the cancelled flight. For more information on this, read our guide about LOT flight cancellation compensation.
It’s important to note that any refund or compensation owed to you should be paid directly to your bank account.
You are not obligated to accept vouchers from LOT.
2.2 Your Flight Was Delayed
If your flight is delayed, there are two possible scenarios: either it was the airline’s fault, or it was not. If the delay was due to the airline’s fault, you may be eligible for flight delay compensation. It’s important to determine whether you qualify for compensation and receive the full amount owed to you. Do not settle for less than you are entitled to.
The European Union has set regulations for flight compensation procedures and amounts, which usually range from 250 to 600 euros. LOT may offer a voucher instead of cash compensation, but accepting it is not mandatory. If you choose to accept a voucher, make sure its value meets legal requirements.
If your flight delay was not caused by LOT, the airline is not required to pay compensation since they are not at fault. Keep in mind that vouchers are rarely issued for delays, and they cannot be exchanged for cash.
2.3 You Were Denied Boarding
If you are denied boarding due to overbooking, you have the right to receive either an alternative flight or a refund to your bank account. In addition, you may be entitled to compensation for being involuntarily denied boarding.
Like with delays and cancellations, if you qualify for compensation, you do not have to accept a non-refundable voucher. You have the option to have the compensation transferred directly to your bank account.
If you choose to give up your seat voluntarily, you may be offered various perks such as cash, miles, points or LOT vouchers. However, it’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any offer presented to you. This includes checking whether the offer is refundable or non-refundable, its validity period, and any limitations on its use.
By Europe and EU here on this page (and on this website in general) we mean all EU Member States, the United Kingdom (UK), Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Reunion, Mayotte, Saint Martin (French Antilles), the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.
2.4 Other Situations
Pay attention to what you are offered.
Carefully evaluate any offers you receive. If you have doubts, do your own research to ensure fair treatment. Our website provides useful information on when you may qualify for compensation or a refund.
Remember, you often have the right to a full reimbursement or compensation from LOT Polish Airlines, even if they offer a voucher instead.
Here’s a summary of what you can get in what situation:
| Situation | EU flight compensation | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| Flight delayed for 3+ hours | If it’s due to the fault of LOT, you are entitled to flight delay compensation | No |
| Flight delayed less than 3 hours | No | No |
| Flight cancelled less than 2 weeks before the flight | If it’s due to the fault of LOT, you are entitled to flight cancellation compensation | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| Flight cancelled more than 2 weeks before the flight | No | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| You are involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking | You can get denied boarding compensation | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| You have given up your seat (voluntary denied boarding) | No | As per agreement with LOT |
If you are entitled to a monetary compensation or refund, you don’t have to accept any vouchers, especially non-refundable ones.
3. How to Request a Refund?
To get a refund for a LOT cancelled flight, click here.
For more information, visit the website of LOT.
Depending on your ticket type and the situation, you can request a full refund of your ticket price, extra services that you have booked with LOT, or it may be a flight compensation LOT owes you.
3.1 Demand a LOT Refund (or Compensation), Not Voucher
To ensure you receive proper compensation, it is important to demand a LOT refund or compensation rather than settling for a voucher. As per the law, you have the right to reject vouchers and insist on a full refund via bank transfer if regulations permit. You can refer to the table above to understand all possible scenarios.
If you have already accepted a voucher but believe you are entitled to cash compensation, you can try exchanging it. However, the chances of obtaining a complete cash refund depend on your specific situation. In case you were not given a choice between a voucher and cash, or you did not receive a satisfactory explanation, it is worth attempting to receive the money.
Read more:
- Why Is Your LOT Refund Taking So Long and What Can You Do?
- Your LOT Compensation Claim Is Rejected. What’s Next?
Featured photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich from Pexels