## Hyatt’s 24-Hour Cancellation Policy for Elites
Hyatt offers a unique cancellation policy for [World of Hyatt Globalist](https://onemileatatime.com/guides/hyatt-globalist-status/) and [Explorist members](https://onemileatatime.com/guides/world-of-hyatt-explorist/). While the standard cancellation guidelines require that a reservation be canceled at least 48 hours prior to check-in, qualifying elite members can cancel their stay up to 24 hours beforehand. As you might anticipate, there are specific conditions to consider:
– The 24-hour cancellation rule is applicable only at hotels and resorts enforcing a 48-hour cancellation policy or shorter; it does not apply to establishments with more stringent cancellation policies.
– Cancellations must occur 24 hours prior to the check-in time, not merely by 11:59 PM the evening before check-in.
– This policy is not valid for Hyatt Vacation Club or Miraval locations.
– This rule is applicable solely to Explorist members and those at higher tiers, hence it does not extend to [World of Hyatt Discoverist members](https://onemileatatime.com/guides/world-of-hyatt-discoverist/).
For completeness, here are the pertinent World of Hyatt terms & conditions:
> Explorists are able to cancel reservations up to 24 hours before the hotel or resort check-in time if the hotel’s or resort’s cancellation period does not exceed 48 hours. This cancellation advantage does not apply: (i) to reservations at Hyatt Vacation Club or Miraval resorts; (ii) in instances where the rate is pre-paid and/or non-refundable; (iii) when the hotel’s or resort’s cancellation period surpasses 48 hours; (iv) for reservations made at corporate negotiated or group contract rates, or (v) for reservations made under a specific room-type cancellation policy. Eligibility for this advantage hinges on tier status at the point of cancellation. The cancellation timeframes are aligned with the hotel’s time zone. The hotel or resort check-in time and standard cancellation period are disclosed during the booking process.
This policy has been effective since early 2018. At that time, Hyatt adopted a stricter cancellation policy — prior to this change, most properties allowed cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival, which then shifted to 48 hours. However, elite members have been exempt from this policy since its inception.
## Do You Need to Cancel by Phone to Utilize This?
So, how can you effectively benefit from this enhanced cancellation policy, assuming you hold the necessary status? When you manage a reservation on Hyatt’s website or mobile app, you will find the standard cancellation policy displayed, even if your status qualifies you for a more accommodating policy.
It’s generally advisable to contact World of Hyatt customer service to cancel a reservation when availing the 24-hour policy, to ensure that the cancellation is executed accurately. It is possible that online cancellations work as well, but relying solely on that may lead to complications.
## Bottom Line
World of Hyatt Globalist and Explorist members qualify for a distinct cancellation policy. For hotels necessitating a 48-hour cancellation before the check-in time, eligible elite members are instead allowed to cancel up to 24 hours prior.
Hyatt does not heavily promote this policy, but it’s beneficial to be informed, as there are occasions when this could prove especially useful.
**Have you ever utilized Hyatt’s elite cancellation policy?**