There are a few common reasons why an event ticket may be voided or invalidated by the ticket issuer:
Expired Tickets
If a ticket is for an event that has already taken place in the past, the ticket is no longer valid. Venues and event organizers will put an expiration date on tickets so they cannot be used for future events. If you try to use an expired ticket, it will be voided or invalidated at the point of entry.
Cancelled or Postponed Events
If an event is cancelled or postponed, any tickets sold for the original event date will be voided. The event organizer should notify ticket holders and offer refunds or exchanges for the new event date. But if you try to use the original ticket after cancellation, it will not be valid.
Duplicate Tickets
To prevent fraud, ticket issuers have safeguards in place to void duplicate copies of tickets. If the same ticket is copied or printed multiple times, only the first use will be recognized as valid. Any subsequent copies presented will register as void.
Lost or Stolen Tickets
If a purchased ticket is lost, stolen or obtained fraudulently, the original owner can report it to the ticket issuer. The issuer will then flag that ticket as invalid and replace it with a new one for the original buyer. Any fraudulent third-party tickets will be voided upon scanning.
Ticket Resale Violations
Some tickets have resale restrictions, prohibiting buyers from reselling them above face value. If an event organizer identifies a scalped ticket, they may void it to discourage illegal resales. The original buyer may also have their future ticket buying privileges revoked.
Incorrect Ticket Type
Using the wrong ticket type for an event will lead to a voided ticket. For example, using an adult ticket for a child’s admission, or a general admission ticket for a reserved seat. Always make sure your ticket type matches the credentials of the attendee.
Failure to Comply With Venue Policies
Most venues have terms and conditions that ticket holders must follow regarding prohibited items, entry requirements, conduct rules, etc. Failure to comply can result in your ticket being voided at their discretion.
Counterfeit or Altered Tickets
Any ticket that appears forged, counterfeit or intentionally manipulated to change details will be considered void by event staff. Only authentic tickets directly issued from the source will be accepted.
Technical Errors
In rare cases, a technical glitch during the ticket issuing process can lead to invalid tickets sent to buyers. Computer bugs, corrupted barcodes, faulty printing, etc. The venue will void any tickets with errors and work to provide replacement valid tickets.
Unauthorized Reproduction
Tickets often have security features and marking to prevent unauthorized duplication. Trying to produce counterfeit tickets using photocopiers, scanners, or printers will yield voided copies that cannot be redeemed.
Damaged Tickets
Heavily damaged tickets where important info like the barcode or seat number are obscured will be considered void. The damage can happen accidentally or intentionally. But either way, the venue can’t accept and verify them.
How to Avoid Having Your Ticket Voided
To make sure your ticket is valid and honored for entry, follow these best practices:
- Buy only from trusted authorized ticket sellers like the venue box office, promoter, or licensed resellers.
- Check the event date and arrival time on your ticket before attending.
- Keep your ticket in a safe place to prevent loss, theft or damage.
- Never copy or intentionally manipulate a ticket to change details.
- Read and follow all venue policies for prohibited items, entry requirements, conduct code, etc.
- Only purchase ticket resales if expressly permitted. Avoid scalped tickets.
- Double check you have the right ticket for the right event, seat, etc. before heading to the venue.
- Inspect your ticket to make sure it is complete and undamaged.
Getting a Replacement for a Voided Ticket
If your ticket ends up void for reasons outside your control, contact the original ticket issuer/seller immediately. They can review your situation and take appropriate steps to replace your voided ticket if you have a valid claim.
Be prepared to provide details like:
- Your name and contact info
- Order confirmation number
- Original method of ticket purchase
- Reason given for voiding the ticket
- Documentation if available (receipts, police report, etc.)
The sooner you act after the voided ticket incident, the better. Reach out before the event date for the best chance of resolution. Be patient as the process can take time depending on the reason and volume of requests.
Purchasing Ticket Insurance
For expensive or highly coveted event tickets, some buyers choose to purchase ticket insurance. This provides coverage in case issues arise leading to a voided ticket:
- Lost ticket coverage – Pays for a replacement if you lose your ticket or have it stolen
- Cancellation coverage – Refunds the ticket price if the event is cancelled and you choose not to attend the rescheduled date
- Seller bankruptcy coverage – Refunds your purchase if the ticket seller goes bankrupt before the event
- Unused ticket coverage – Partial refund if you’re unable to attend the event due to covered circumstances like illness or transportation issues
While adding ticket insurance increases the upfront cost, it brings peace of mind knowing you can get compensated if your ticket is voided for reasons outside your control.
Conclusion
Having an event ticket end up voided can be disappointing and inconvenient. But being aware of the common reasons for voided tickets can help you avoid situations leading to invalidated tickets. Act quickly if an issue arises by contacting the seller, and consider ticket insurance for expensive events. Careful purchase, handling, and verification of your ticket will go a long way to ensuring a smooth entry process.