How to File a Complaint With United Airlines | 2025–2026 Step-by-Step Guide

If your experience with United Airlines didn’t go as planned—whether due to flight cancellations, lost baggage, or poor customer service—filing a formal complaint can help you get your issue resolved. United offers several channels to report problems, but knowing the correct steps ensures your complaint is reviewed quickly and taken seriously.

This 2025–2026 guide covers how to file a complaint with United Airlines, how to reach customer service, and what to expect when escalating an unresolved issue.

Quick Contact Options for United Airlines

Before submitting a formal complaint, consider contacting United’s customer support directly for quick assistance. Many minor issues can be resolved without filing a full complaint.

Customer Service Phone (U.S. and Canada): 1-800-864-8331

Best hours: Early morning or late evening (U.S. Central Time)

Typical wait time: 10–25 minutes

International Contact Numbers: Available at united.com/ContactInformation
.

Live Chat: Accessible through the United app and website under “Help.”

Social Media:

X (Twitter): @United

Facebook: facebook.com/United

If you need to report a more serious issue or request compensation, it’s best to use United’s official online complaint form or submit written documentation.

How to File a Complaint Online

The fastest way to file a complaint with United Airlines is through their online Customer Care form.

Go to united.com/feedback
.

Choose the correct category for your issue (baggage, refund, flight experience, etc.).

Enter your flight confirmation number and personal details.

Write a detailed description of the problem, including dates and locations.

Attach supporting files, such as receipts or photos, if applicable.

Submit the form and keep the confirmation number for reference.

United typically responds within 10–14 business days, though refund requests and compensation claims can take longer depending on review volume.

How to File a Complaint by Phone or Mail

If you prefer a personal approach or have an urgent matter, United Airlines also allows complaints by phone or postal mail.

Customer Care Phone: 1-800-864-8331

Mailing Address:
United Airlines, Inc.
Customer Care
900 Grand Plaza Drive NHCCR
Houston, TX 77067

Include your full name, contact information, flight number, and a detailed explanation of the issue. Written complaints should also include copies of receipts, boarding passes, or any communication with customer service.

Escalating Your Complaint

If your complaint goes unanswered or you’re dissatisfied with United’s response, you can escalate the issue through official channels:

Re-contact Customer Care: Use your original case number when following up.

Ask for a Supervisor: Request escalation to a higher-level customer service representative.

Department of Transportation (DOT):

File a formal complaint through the U.S. Department of Transportation at airconsumer.dot.gov/escomplaint/ConsumerForm.cfm
.

The DOT forwards your complaint to United and requires the airline to respond in writing.

Escalated cases typically take up to 30 days for review and response but often result in clearer resolutions or compensation offers.

Refunds, Compensation, and Baggage Claims

United Airlines provides several ways to request refunds and compensation depending on the type of issue you experienced.

Refund Requests: Submit at united.com/refunds
. You can check the status of your claim at the same link.

Flight Cancellations or Delays: If United is responsible for the disruption, you may qualify for a refund, eCredit, or hotel voucher.

Baggage Issues: File a lost or damaged baggage report at united.com/baggage
within 24 hours for domestic flights or 7 days for international routes.

For denied claims, respond to the original email with your reference number and additional details. Persistence and detailed documentation can improve your chances of resolution.

Tips for Effective Complaints

Be detailed and factual. Clearly state what went wrong, when it happened, and how you’d like the issue resolved.

Stay polite. Courteous communication is more likely to get attention and help.

Keep records. Save all emails, screenshots, and call logs related to your issue.

Follow up. If you haven’t received a response in 10–14 days, contact Customer Care again with your reference number.

Use multiple methods. Combine online forms with phone or social media contact for faster acknowledgment.

Conclusion

Filing a complaint with United Airlines in 2025–2026 is a straightforward process if you know where to start. The online feedback form offers the quickest response, but you can also escalate through supervisors or the Department of Transportation if needed.

By keeping detailed records, communicating clearly, and following up persistently, you improve your chances of receiving a refund, compensation, or a formal apology for your inconvenience.