Wait — I Can Do That? | Ep. 2: Demand Cash, Not a Voucher, When Your Flight Is Oversold
Episode 2: DOT Denied Boarding Compensation — Voucher vs. Cash Election
What This Episode Teaches
Most passengers handed a travel voucher at an oversold gate don't know they can legally demand cash instead — and the airline is required to pay it.
The Rule
14 CFR § 250.5 — DOT Involuntary Denied Boarding (IDB) compensation:
When a passenger is involuntarily bumped from an oversold domestic flight, the carrier must pay statutory cash compensation:
| Delay | Compensation |
|---|---|
| Up to 4 hours | 200% of one-way fare (max $775) |
| Over 4 hours | 400% of one-way fare (max $1,550) |
Passengers may elect cash or check — a travel voucher is not the required form of payment.
What Disqualifies You
- You volunteered to give up your seat
- Late check-in (did not meet the carrier's check-in deadline)
- Aircraft with fewer than 60 seats (small aircraft swap)
- Charter flights
The Verbatim Script
"Under DOT 14 CFR Part 250, I am being involuntarily denied boarding. I elect cash compensation, not a voucher. Please provide the written statement of my rights."
On-screen citation: 14 CFR § 250.5
Mandatory Closing
"Verify with a professional for your jurisdiction."
Source: Internal knowledge — 14 CFR § 250.5 (1 source)
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