DVC Canceling Policies: FAQs with DVC Sales

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) ownership offers flexibility, convenience, and magical vacations, but what happens when plans change? Whether you're canceling a reservation or considering backing out of a DVC resale purchase, understanding DVC cancellation policies is critical.

In this FAQ-style guide, we team up with DVC Sales experts to answer your most common questions about DVC canceling rules, timelines, points handling, and more.

1: Can I cancel a DVC reservation?

Yes, DVC members can cancel their reservations, but timing is everything. If you cancel too close to your travel date, your points may be placed into a Holding Account, which limits how and when you can use them.

Cancellation Timeline Basics:

• Cancel 31 or more days before check-in: Points return to your account with no penalty.
• Cancel 30 to 1 day before check-in: Points go into a Holding Account and must be used by the end of your Use Year, for reservations booked 60 days or less in advance.

2: What is a Holding Account, and how does it affect me?

A Holding Account is where your points are deposited if you cancel within 30 days of arrival. Here's what to know:

• You cannot bank or borrow Holding Account points.
• Reservations using these points must be made within 60 days of check-in.
• You can't use them for certain exchanges (like RCI or cruises).

It's a way for DVC to offer flexibility while discouraging last-minute cancellations.

3: Can I cancel a DVC reservation online?

Yes. You can cancel most DVC reservations online via the Disney Vacation Club member portal. Simply:

1. Log in at dvcmember.com
2. Go to My Dashboard > Upcoming Reservations
3. Select the trip and click Cancel

You'll receive a confirmation email, and your points will be automatically returned or reclassified based on your timing.

4: Do I lose my points if I cancel a reservation?

Not if you cancel on time.

• Before 31 days: Full point refund.
• Within 30 days: Points go into Holding.
• No-show: Points are forfeited entirely.

To avoid point loss, cancel or modify as early as possible.

5: What happens if I cancel a DVC rental?

If you rented your points to someone else or booked through a rental agency:

• Terms depend on the rental agreement; many are non-refundable.
• If the renter cancels late, you may be responsible for point loss or holding restrictions.

Tip: If you rent out your points, be clear on terms and protect yourself with a written agreement.

6: How does canceling a DVC resale purchase work?

If you're buying a DVC resale contract through a licensed broker like DVC Sales, state-mandated cancellation laws apply.

• Most states (like Florida) offer a 10-day rescission period after signing the contract.
• During this window, buyers can cancel with no penalty and receive a full refund of the deposit.

After this period, backing out typically results in the loss of the deposit unless other arrangements are made with the broker or seller.

7: Can I cancel a trip booked with banked or borrowed points?

Yes, but with added risk.

• Banked points: Will go into Holding if canceled late, but still must be used within their Use Year.
• Borrowed points: Cannot be returned to their original Use Year and must be used as scheduled, or lost.

This is why proper point planning is essential, especially when using borrowed or banked points.

8: What if I cancel due to an emergency or illness?

While DVC doesn't have a formal "exception" policy for emergencies, Cast Members have been known to work with guests in serious situations. However:

• There's no guarantee you'll receive point reinstatement.
• Purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended to protect your investment.

9: Can I modify my reservation instead of canceling it?

Yes, and this may help avoid Holding Account penalties. You can:

• Change dates, room types, or resorts (subject to availability)
• Keep your trip alive without entirely canceling

Just remember: Modifications are still subject to the 31-day rule, so act early!

10: Are DVC Points Expired if Unused?

Yes, all DVC points have a set expiration date based on your contract's use year. Unused points may expire if not banked or used, so be sure to manage your points and reservations with the Disney Vacation Club Point Calculator and review your member dashboard regularly.

Valuable Resources for DVC Members

For more on DVC canceling policies, visit the official Disney Vacation Club cancellation FAQ or check out the DVC Sales blog for updated tips and industry news. Members looking to explore DVC resale listings or compare DVC brokers can browse the latest options on the DVC Sales resale listings page.