In this article, we will discuss TAP vouchers.
We will cover TAP voucher types and describe how to exchange a TAP voucher to cash.
Vouchers are often provided by airlines for flight interruptions. Though it’s crucial to note that these vouchers aren’t a substitute for flight compensation. To understand the situations in which vouchers could be issued and your rights as a passenger, read on. It’s worth noting that in many instances, you aren’t obligated to take the airline vouchers.
Always keep in mind that accepting a voucher doesn’t equate to receiving compensation.
1. TAP Vouchers
Vouchers have a fixed value and serve as a mode of payment.
Airlines frequently provide vouchers to their clients, and TAP is no different. There are two primary categories of TAP vouchers that are granted to passengers: TAP Gift Cards and flight compensation vouchers.
- TAP Gift Cards are standard travel gift cards that come preloaded with funds for the purchase of flights.
- TAP compensation vouchers can also be used in the same way, but they’re issued by the airline in cases of flight disturbances (including delays, cancellations, or overbookings).
Receiving a gift card is pretty straightforward – someone gives it to you as a gift.
But what about the compensation voucher or the voucher you receive as a refund for an unused flight? Keep reading to learn more.
2. TAP Voucher (Refund/Compensation)
What has happened to your flight?
Why you have been given a voucher?
2.1 Your Flight Was Cancelled
In the event of a cancellation, TAP is required to offer you two options: a refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. This alternate flight may be with another airline, and should not come at an additional cost to you. In certain scenarios, you may also be eligible for compensation.
To learn more about potential compensation due to cancellations, check out our resource on TAP flight cancellation compensation.
It’s important to note that refunds and compensation must be deposited directly into your bank account; you do not have to accept vouchers from TAP.
2.2 Your Flight Was Delayed
There are usually two scenarios: either it was TAP’s fault, or it wasn’t.
If the delay was caused by TAP, you may be entitled to compensation. It’s important to determine your eligibility and not settle for less than what you’re rightfully owed. The European Union has established regulations related to flight compensation, which typically range from 250 to 600 euros.
While TAP may offer you a voucher instead of direct compensation, it’s essential to remember that accepting a voucher is not mandatory. If you do choose to accept one, verify that its value is equivalent to what is mandated by law.
If the delay was not caused by TAP, the airline is not legally obligated to provide any form of compensation. Additionally, please note that vouchers issued for delays usually cannot be exchanged for cash.
2.3 You Were Denied Boarding
In the event that a flight is overbooked, you and other passengers may be involuntarily denied boarding. If this occurs, you have the right to either receive an alternative flight or a refund to your bank account. Additionally, you are entitled to compensation for being involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking.
Just like with delays and cancellations, if you are eligible for compensation, you should not feel compelled to accept a non-refundable voucher. You have the right to have the compensation deposited directly into your bank account. Remember – compensation must be paid in cash or by bank transfer, not with vouchers.
If you decide to give up your seat voluntarily, you may be offered various incentives, including cash, TAP flight vouchers, and gift cards. It’s important to carefully review the terms of any offer you receive, such as whether it is refundable or non-refundable, its validity period, and any restrictions on its use.
By Europe and EU here on this page (and on this website in general) we mean all EU Member States, the United Kingdom (UK), Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Reunion, Mayotte, Saint Martin (French Antilles), the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.
2.4 Other Situations
When it comes to matters related to your flight, it’s crucial to stay informed and vigilant about the options available to you. If you find yourself in a situation where you have doubts or concerns, we strongly advise conducting your own research to ensure that you are being treated fairly.
By taking the initiative to familiarize yourself with the regulations and guidelines, you can make informed decisions and advocate for fair treatment. Our website serves as a valuable resource, providing information on various scenarios where you may be eligible for compensation and/or a refund.
Here’s a summary of what you can get in what situation:
| Situation | EU flight compensation | Refund |
|---|---|---|
| Flight delayed for 3+ hours | If it’s due to the fault of TAP, you are entitled to flight delay compensation | No |
| Flight delayed for less than 3 hours | No | No |
| Flight cancelled less than 2 weeks before the flight | If it’s due to the fault of TAP, you are entitled to flight cancellation compensation | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| Flight cancelled more than 2 weeks before the flight | No | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| You are involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking | You can get denied boarding compensation | You can choose between a refund and a new flight |
| You have given up your seat (voluntary denied boarding) | No | As per agreement with TAP |
Keep in mind that if you are entitled to a refund or compensation, or both, the airline must transfer the money to your bank account. You don’t have to accept TAP vouchers.
3. How to Request a Refund?
To get refund for a cancelled flight from TAP, click here.
Request a ticket refund to the original payment method.
If you wish, you can reschedule your flight for free. Or opt for a voucher refund with 10% increase compared to the paid amount. But if you don’t want to any of this, you have the right to request a ticket refund to the original payment method.
3.1 Demand a TAP Refund (or Compensation), Not Voucher
In various situations, you hold the power of choice.
Under the law, you have the right to reject TAP vouchers or gift cards offered as compensation. If regulations mandate a full refund to be transferred directly to your bank account, you should receive that refund instead of vouchers.
For a comprehensive overview of all possible scenarios, please refer to the table provided above.
What if you have already accepted a voucher?
If you have previously accepted a voucher from TAP instead of a monetary compensation or refund, but believe that you should have been compensated in cash or through a bank transfer, you can explore the possibility of arranging an exchange. However, it’s important to note that the likelihood of obtaining a complete cash refund depends on the specific details of your situation. If you did not receive an adequate explanation or were not initially given the option to choose between a voucher and a monetary refund, it may still be worthwhile to pursue the possibility of receiving the refund in cash.
What is your experience with TAP vouchers? Have you ever been given one? Was it a refundable TAP voucher or you could use it only for TAP flights?
Read more:
- Your TAP Refund Is Taking Forever? Here’s What You Can Do!
- Your TAP Compensation Claim Is Rejected. What Now?
Featured photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich from Pexels