JetBlue: Passengers Now Have 12 Months From Booking to Use Travel Credits

Don't let your JetBlue travel credits go to waste. 

It's not uncommon for airlines to change their policies. JetBlue recently made changes to how it will handle travel credits. If you're a JetBlue loyalist, you'll want to ensure you understand these changes before you book your next flight, so there are no surprises. JetBlue travel credits will be valid for 12 months from the original ticketing date.

Here's what you need to know about JetBlue travel credits 

When JetBlue issues travel credits, they are stored in a customer's Travel Bank. Funds can be used to book JetBlue-operated flights or the airfare portion of a JetBlue Vacations package. The airline recently updated its Travel Bank terms and conditions. Here's what you need to know: 

Flights issued or exchanged after March 8, 2023, that are voluntarily canceled or exchanged for a lower fare, will be valid for 12 months from the original ticketing date. You must apply the credit to a new or existing booking before the credit expires in order not to lose the credit. But, you can book beyond the expiration date as long as you book before the credit expires.

It's worth noting that this new change doesn't apply to previously purchased JetBlue tickets. For tickets purchased before March 8, 2023, that are voluntarily canceled or exchanged for a lower fare, funds are valid for 12 months from the date the credit is issued. 

Pay attention to cancellation and change fees 

If you need to cancel a JetBlue ticket, consider cancellation and change fees first. Most JetBlue fare types can be canceled or changed without fees. All you have to pay is the difference in airfare when you rebook your flight.  

However, if you purchase a Blue Basic fare ticket, the cheapest and least flexible fare type, you'll be charged $100 to $200 to cancel or make changes. The airline charges a $100 fee for North America, Central America, and Caribbean flights and a $200 fee for other routes. 

Fees like this can make your next vacation more expensive and could require you to alter your vacation budget before you depart. If you want to avoid extra fees, booking a different fare type may be worth it when flying with JetBlue. These fares come at a higher cost, but they may be the best option if you prefer greater flexibility. 

Review all ticket policies before booking airline tickets 

JetBlue's recent travel credit change is a good reminder that airlines can update their policies anytime, and you may not always receive notice. That means you must be proactive and ensure policies haven't changed before you spend money on a ticket. 

No matter which carrier you're flying with, review all ticket terms and conditions before booking your next flight. Travel can be costly -- especially in 2023. Understanding each airline's policies can help you save more of your hard-earned money. 

Use travel credit cards to earn rewards 

Before booking your next trip, you may want to consider getting a travel rewards credit card. You can earn rewards on your travel spending and redeem your rewards for nearly free flights in the future. For frequent travelers, travel rewards help to make travel more affordable. 

Many travel cards also include valuable benefits that can improve your travel experience. Are you wondering which rewards credit card to get? If you're loyal to a particular airline, airline credit cards may be best for you. If you're not loyal to one airline, general travel rewards credit cards are another option to explore. Don't miss out on the chance to earn travel rewards.