Airbnb handles refunds based on the host's chosen cancellation policy and the eligibility of the guest's claim. There are various cancellation policies that determine the refund amount and time frame for guests. They include:
Flexible: Guests are allowed to cancel until 24 hours before check-in and still receive a full refund.
Moderate: Guests are allowed to cancel until five days before check-in and still receive a full refund.
Firm: Guests must cancel at least 30 days before check-in to receive a full refund. A 50% refund will be available if cancellation occurs between seven and 30 days before check-in.
Strict: Guests must cancel within 48 hours of booking, and at least 14 days prior to check-in, to receive a full refund. A 50% refund will be available if cancellation occurs between seven and 14 days before check-in.
If a guest requests a refund before the check-in date, the host can issue a full refund through the Reservations overview. For refunds after the check-in date, the host can use Airbnb's Resolution Center to offer partial reimbursement.
Additionally, Airbnb's Rebooking and Refund Policy covers specific â€œtravel issues,â€ such as noncommittal hosts, unsafe or unclean properties, inaccurate listing descriptions, and major issues during the stay. In such cases, the guest must provide supporting documentation within 72 hours of the discovery for their claim to be considered.