Delta lost your luggage? Here’s what to do
Summary: When Delta loses your bag you can claim reimbursement for the contents and for reasonable interim expenses — file before the deadline.
Why Delta lost your luggage
- A bag was delayed, misrouted, or never arrived.
- Contents were missing or damaged on arrival.
Step by step: what to do
- File a property irregularity report with Delta at the airport, before you leave.
- Keep receipts for essentials you have to buy while the bag is missing.
- Call Delta at 1-800-221-1212 to file the reimbursement claim and get a claim number.
- Submit an itemized list of contents and their value within the deadline.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving the airport without filing a report.
- Missing the claim deadline for delayed or lost baggage.
What to say when you call Delta
- My checked bag was lost — I’m filing a reimbursement claim for the contents and my interim expenses.
Know your rights
When an airline cancels or significantly changes your flight, DOT rules entitle you to a cash refund to your original form of payment — not just a travel credit — if you choose not to rebook.
Regulator: the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). If the airline stalls, file a complaint with the DOT Office of Aviation Consumer Protection and dispute the charge with your card issuer.
Don’t want to make the call?
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If Karen is ever missing information she needs — or the rep asks to verify your identity — she’ll add you to the call for a quick warm handoff so you can take over, then step back out.
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Frequently asked questions
How much can I claim for a lost bag?
For domestic U.S. flights, airline liability for lost checked bags is capped by DOT at a set maximum. Submit an itemized claim with receipts to recover up to that limit.