FAQ: Deutsche Bahn delays and compensation
Short answers. For your individual case please use DB's official route.
Common questions about train delays in Germany
Deutsche Bahn delays: when do I get money back?
From 60 minutes late at your destination you get 25% of the fare, from 120 minutes 50%. Nothing is paid under 4 EUR. Check your case with the delay check.
Train delay refund: how do I claim Deutsche Bahn compensation?
In the DB Navigator app or your DB customer account. Alternatively post the passenger rights form to DB Fernverkehr AG, Servicecenter Fahrgastrechte, 60647 Frankfurt am Main (as printed on DB's passenger rights form (Feb 2025)). More under Your rights.
Train cancelled: am I entitled to a refund?
Yes. If your train is cancelled or a delay of 60+ minutes is announced or foreseeable, you choose: fare back, continuation or rerouting. From 20 minutes announced or foreseeable delay you may take another train; heavily discounted tickets may be excluded.
Deutsche Bahn compensation with a season ticket or Deutschlandticket: how much?
Per delay of 60+ minutes: local 1.50 EUR (1st class 2.25 EUR), long-distance 5 EUR (7.50 EUR), BahnCard 100 10 EUR (15 EUR), Deutschlandticket 1.50 EUR (always 2nd class, even with a 1st class upgrade). Capped at 25% of the season ticket price, the monthly price for subscriptions.
S-Bahn Stuttgart delays: do passenger rights apply on the S-Bahn?
Yes, passenger rights apply to regional rail too, but not to underground, light rail or buses. With transport-association tickets another company may be your contract partner. VVS also offers its mobility guarantee.
Deutsche Bahn problems caused by storms or strikes: what counts?
No compensation for extraordinary circumstances such as major natural disasters or causes by third parties (people on the tracks, cable theft, police operations). An ordinary storm is not an exception, and neither are strikes by rail staff.
Deutsche Bahn refused my claim. What now?
File an objection with the Servicecenter Fahrgastrechte. If it is still refused, you can turn to the arbitration body Schlichtung Reise & Verkehr (söp).
How long do I have to claim?
Claim no later than 1 year after the ticket's validity ends. For passes, the clock starts when the pass's validity ends. Tip: submit as soon as possible.
Is Zugfrust run by Deutsche Bahn?
No. Zugfrust is not affiliated with Deutsche Bahn. We do not file claims or assess individual cases. You send your letter yourself.
Does Zugfrust store my data?
No. The check runs only in your browser. No cookies, no tracking, your entries are not stored.