What
is covered?
The
USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program protects consumers for
up to $1 Million in the aggregate from loss of deposits and payments
for tours or vacation packages in the event of a USTOA Active Member
bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business or the material failure
to complete performance of tour(s) or vacation package(s).
When can I file
a claim?
A claim
can be filed when a tour operator declares bankruptcy, becomes insolvent
or ceases business, or 120 days following the failure of a tour operator
to refund a payment or deposit after a cancellation or material failure
to complete performance of a tour(s) or vacation package(s). The program
covers tours or vacation packages purchased up to seven (7) days following
official notification to USTOA of an Active Member’s bankruptcy,
insolvency or cessation of business.
If I decide
to cancel, does the $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program cover
me?
No.
Individual trip cancellation insurance is available, and may be obtained
through your travel agent or tour operator.
What if I've
already paid for a tour or vacation package in advance, and the tour
operator goes bankrupt before the scheduled departure date?
You
are covered within the limits of the coverage as long as your payment
or deposit was made within seven (7) days following notification to
USTOA of the bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business.
Is there an
extra charge for this coverage?
No.
Each time you travel with a USTOA Active Member company, your deposits
and payments for tours and vacation packages are automatically protected
up to the limits of the coverage at no extra charge.
How is a claim
made?
Claim
forms may be obtained from USTOA's office at 345 Seventh Ave., Suite
1801, New York, NY 10001, or by calling the association at (212) 599-6599,
or via e-mail to information@ustoa.com.
Is there a deadline
for filing claims?
Yes.
Claims must be filed no later than ninety (90) days after the bankruptcy,
insolvency, cessation of business or failure to refund on account
of cancellation or non-performance, as the case may be.
Who will reimburse
me?
Reimbursements
will be made through USTOA or its authorized representative.
Your
Travel Agent
USTOA’s
Active Member companies offer a wide array of tours and vacation packages,
all sold through travel agents. An experienced, professional travel
agent can help you select the tour or vacation package that’s
best suited to your requirements, and that will give you the best
value for your travel dollar.
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