Changing your movie time on Fandango after purchasing tickets is possible, but the ease and specific method depend largely on the theater’s policy and whether the showing is imminent. While a direct time change feature within the Fandango app or website is not universally available, several options exist, ranging from direct exchanges to refunds and repurchase.
Understanding Fandango’s Exchange and Refund Policies
Navigating the world of online movie ticketing often involves unforeseen circumstances. Perhaps your schedule shifted, or you realized you chose the wrong showing time. Fandango understands that flexibility is key, but their policies are primarily dictated by the individual theaters they partner with.
It’s crucial to remember that Fandango acts as a ticketing platform; the ultimate decision regarding exchanges and refunds rests with the theater. Before exploring specific methods, familiarize yourself with the theater’s stated policy – often found on Fandango’s website alongside showtime information or on the theater’s own website.
Methods for Changing Your Movie Time
While a one-click “change time” button doesn’t exist, you have several avenues to explore:
Contacting Fandango Customer Service
This is often the first and most reliable approach. Fandango’s customer service representatives have access to more information than is readily available to you and can often facilitate exchanges or refunds if permitted by the theater.
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Locate the Customer Service Contact: Find the “Contact Us” or “Help” section on Fandango’s website or app. Look for options to chat online, send an email, or call.
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Provide Order Details: Be prepared to provide your order confirmation number, the movie title, the theater location, and the original showtime.
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Clearly State Your Request: Explain that you want to change your movie time and state your desired new showtime. Be polite and patient; the representative will need to check the theater’s policy.
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Follow Instructions: If the exchange is possible, the representative will guide you through the process, which might involve issuing a refund for the original tickets and having you repurchase for the new showtime.
Checking the Theater’s Policy Directly
Sometimes, contacting the theater directly is a faster and more effective approach, especially for local or independent theaters.
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Find the Theater’s Contact Information: Search online for the theater’s phone number or email address.
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Explain Your Situation: Briefly explain that you need to change your movie time and provide your order details (if applicable).
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Inquire About Exchange/Refund Policies: Ask specifically about their policy on changing showtimes and any associated fees.
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Follow Their Instructions: If the theater allows the change, they will provide instructions on how to proceed, which might involve visiting the box office in person.
Considering a Refund and Repurchase
If a direct exchange isn’t possible, inquire about obtaining a refund for your original tickets and purchasing new ones for the desired showtime. Keep in mind that refund eligibility varies greatly by theater and is often subject to time constraints (e.g., refunds may not be permitted within a few hours of the showtime).
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Inquire about Refund Eligibility: Ask Fandango or the theater about the possibility of a refund.
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Understand Refund Processing Time: If a refund is approved, inquire about the estimated processing time (it can take several days to appear back in your account).
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Repurchase Tickets: Once you receive confirmation that the refund is being processed (or if you’re willing to repurchase immediately), purchase new tickets for your desired showtime.
Understanding Restrictions and Limitations
It’s vital to understand that not all changes are possible. Several factors can limit your ability to change your movie time:
- Proximity to Showtime: The closer you are to the original showtime, the less likely it is that you’ll be able to make changes. Many theaters have strict cut-off times for exchanges and refunds.
- Theater’s Policy: As mentioned, the theater’s individual policy is the primary determining factor. Some theaters are more lenient than others.
- Type of Ticket: Some promotional or discounted tickets may be non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
- Third-Party Tickets: If you purchased tickets through a third-party reseller (not directly through Fandango), your options may be even more limited. Contact the reseller for assistance.
Conclusion: Planning and Prompt Action Are Key
While changing your movie time on Fandango isn’t always straightforward, understanding the platform’s policies and acting promptly can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome. Always check the theater’s policy before purchasing tickets and be prepared to contact Fandango or the theater directly to explore your options. Patience and clear communication are essential throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 frequently asked questions to provide even more clarity on changing your movie time on Fandango:
What information do I need to have ready when contacting Fandango customer service?
You’ll need your order confirmation number, the movie title, the theater name and location, the original showtime, and your desired new showtime. Having your payment information handy can also be helpful.
Can I change my movie time online through the Fandango website or app?
Currently, Fandango doesn’t offer a universal, direct “change time” feature. You need to contact customer service or the theater directly to explore your options.
What happens if I can’t get a refund or exchange?
If a refund or exchange is not possible, you’ll forfeit the cost of your tickets. This underscores the importance of carefully selecting your showtime and understanding the theater’s policy beforehand.
How long does it take to get a refund from Fandango?
Refund processing times can vary. Fandango typically estimates that it can take 7-10 business days for the refund to appear back in your account.
What if the new showtime I want is more expensive?
If the new showtime is more expensive, you will likely need to pay the difference in price when repurchasing the tickets.
What if the new showtime I want is less expensive?
If you’re able to obtain a refund and repurchase, you’ll effectively receive a refund for the original ticket price and then pay the lower price for the new tickets. However, a direct exchange may not result in a refund of the price difference.
Does Fandango charge a fee for exchanges or refunds?
Fandango itself typically doesn’t charge a fee for facilitating exchanges or refunds, but the theater’s policy may include fees. Always inquire about potential fees beforehand.
Is it easier to change my movie time closer to the showtime?
No, it’s generally more difficult to change your movie time the closer you get to the showtime. Many theaters have strict cut-off times for exchanges and refunds.
Can I change the number of tickets I have when I change my movie time?
Generally, changing the number of tickets is handled as a separate transaction. You’ll likely need to request a refund for the original tickets and repurchase the desired number of tickets for the new showtime.
What if I purchased tickets through a third-party website, not directly from Fandango?
If you purchased tickets through a third-party, you’ll need to contact that third-party for assistance. Fandango cannot assist with tickets purchased through other sources.
What is the best way to avoid needing to change my movie time in the first place?
Double-check your schedule before purchasing tickets, carefully review the showtime information, and consider purchasing tickets closer to the showtime if you anticipate potential scheduling conflicts.
Where can I find the theater’s policy on exchanges and refunds on Fandango’s website?
Look for a link labeled “Theater Information,” “Showtimes,” or similar on the movie’s page on Fandango. The theater’s policy is usually displayed there. If not, check the theater’s own website or contact them directly.