Delayed checked bag: when do the U.S. 12, 15 and 30-hour refund rules apply?

Which threshold applies?

These rules cover scheduled flights to, from or within the U.S. For international itineraries, use the nonstop U.S.–foreign segment’s duration, including when the delayed bag travelled on a domestic connection.

Measure the actual delay

Start when you can deplane at your final destination. Stop when you or your representative collect the bag there, or it reaches the location agreed with the airline.

Report it and check exceptions

File a Mishandled Baggage Report with the operating airline, or the last operating airline on a multi-carrier itinerary. Airlines handle any required notice between carriers. Subject to the rules below, an eligible fee refund is automatic.

Exceptions cover failing to collect and recheck at first U.S. entry, passenger-fault failure to collect an on-time bag, and voluntary later delivery after late check-in or standby.

Reasonable, actual and verifiable expenses caused by baggage delay are a separate claim, subject to liability limits. Keep receipts.