One benefit of partnering with Collegiate Travel Planners (CTP) is that CTP helps track unused tickets, making it easier to apply credits to future travel and reduce lost funds. In FY 2026, the university has lost nearly $90,000 in expired unused tickets.
When non-refundable airfare is purchased but not used—for example, when a traveler is unable to take the trip—the funds are typically converted into an unused airline credit, depending on the airline’s policy.
Unused credit information is available in the CTP Portal under the “Unused Tickets” widget. Employees can view their own credits, as well as credits for travelers for whom they are assigned as arrangers. These tickets are also visible when booking in Lightning.
At this time, arrangers cannot view unused credits for guests. However, the Travel Program Team can assist with looking up this information. If you need help verifying unused credits for a guest, contact [email protected].
To help travelers and arrangers manage credits, CTP sends reminder emails at 180, 90, 60, and 30 days before expiration. For many tickets, the new flight must be flown before the credit’s expiration date.
Because airline requirements vary, the best practice is to work with a CTP agent before reusing a ticket. A CTP agent can explain the airline’s policy, confirm whether the credit can be applied, and assist with booking the new ticket.
If a traveler cannot use an unused ticket but someone in their unit can, the new traveler should work with a CTP agent to determine whether a name change is possible. Through U-M’s airline contracts, some name change fees may be waived or reduced, depending on the airline, fare type, and ticket rules.
Contact CTP at 877-804-3688 or email [email protected] for help.