National Rail has confirmed a major ticket rule change that could affect millions of passengers. The rail network has explained that the refund conditions for some tickets will change from April. The new rule could leave travellers out of pocket if they have to cancel their plans at the last minute.

Under the new terms, most passengers with Off-Peak and Anytime tickets can only request a refund by 11.59pm the day before their ticket becomes valid. The rule will also apply to Day Travelcards, Rover tickets, and Ranger tickets.

Passengers who can’t travel due to exceptional circumstances, such as a medical emergency, won’t be affected. National Rail told customers the change is being made to combat fare evasion.

Clarifying the rule change to passengers on its website, National Rail said: “From 1 April 2026, if you have one of the above tickets and decide not to use it, you will have until 11.59pm the day before it becomes valid to request a refund from the retailer who sold it to you.

“After that you will only be able to claim a refund if your train service has been delayed or cancelled, or if an exceptional circumstance (such as a serious medical emergency) has stopped you from travelling. We will be ending the practice of accepting refund claims up to 28 days after the date of travel.”

National Rail added that fare evasion costs the rail industry millions each year. The rail network said: “The changes will stop fraudulent claims for refunds on tickets that have been used for travel. They bring our terms and conditions into line with the railways of most other countries, where most day tickets are not refundable once they become valid for travel.”

According to the frequently asked questions section on National Rail’s website, Advance and Season tickets will not be affected. The change does not apply to tickets purchased before April 1, reports the Mirror.

The rule change will apply to tickets purchased on the date of travel unless you choose not to travel because the train is cancelled or disrupted. A question on the FAQ page said: “What if I make a mistake and buy the wrong ticket?” The answer said: “Please tell the retailer who sold you it as soon as you realise your mistake, they might be able to resolve the problem then and there.

“If you discover your mistake after you have started your journey, you may need to buy another ticket to be able to complete your journey. If you then contact the retailer’s customer services and provide evidence of your mistake they will consider issuing a refund.”

Sharing advice for disabled passengers, National Rail added: “If you decide not to travel for a reason relating to your disability or long-term medical condition, please state this in your refund claim. Train companies have a duty to make sure that you are treated fairly and will consider a refund in these circumstances.”

Customers can find full details of the new rule in the National Rail Conditions of Travel or read the FAQs here.