How to keep your expenses on track as a rail passenger
I LOVE free stuff, which is why I’ve always been a big fan of ombudsmen.
So the launch of the new Rail Ombudsman is great news for everyone who experiences a train trauma, from long-suffering commuters to disappointed day-trippers.
Of course, in an ideal world, you wouldn’t have to make a complaint, so here are a few tips on how to reclaim cash, save a few bob and avoid some of the 15,000 train complaints we’ve helped sort out at Resolver.
■ Claim a refund. If your train is delayed by more than 30 minutes (sometimes 15 minutes or less) you could be entitled to a refund of some or all of your money. The rules vary between train companies, but don’t despair!
Look for the ‘delay repay’ guide on your train company’s website. MoneySavingExpert has a great guide too.
These guides will explain what the rules are and how you can claim. Some companies like Virgin automatically refund while others ask you to send in your tickets – so don’t chuck them away.
It’s estimated that well over two-thirds of people entitled to refunds don’t claim, so you could be losing hundreds a year.
■ Check guidance for season tickets. Things get a bit more complicated here but, in theory, you are still entitled to a refund for delays, service issues, even the chaotic scenes that many of us had to endure through this long year of strikes, delays and timetable errors.
Check the guidance on the train company website but don’t delay – there are deadlines for claiming coming up very soon with some train operators. Don’t forget there’s yet another train fare rise right at the beginning of January, so this is a good time to buy a season ticket if you want to beat the increase.
■ Look for seasonal savings. Lots of train companies have had to stall offering their discounted tickets until National Rail confirmed the Christmas timetable which has left many confusing full-price tickets on sale when usually there are bargains.
These timetables are now finally being confirmed, so sign up for free alerts from your train company so you don’t miss out on cheap deals.
If you’ve already booked your Christmas travel, bear in mind that some journeys are subject to change so keep an eye out for emails warning you.
■ GET a railcard. You might think that railcards are only for students and pensioners but there are actually lots of them out there and they can save you a packet.
The Two Together card gets you considerable discounts on journeys on most rail services if you travel at the same time as a friend or family member.
Family rail cards can significantly reduce the cost of a day out and the new card for 26-30-year olds that broke the internet when it launched is out soon.
Resolver can help you sort out complaints about pretty much anything for free.
Share your experiences at yourstories@resolvergroup. com and see resolver.co.uk