baggage claim tag · U.S. Department of Transportation · 2026-10-04
Subtract the Offer from the DOT Cap
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Example result
The offer is $3,700.00 under the capped loss.
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DOT allows an airline to limit domestic baggage liability at $4,700 per passenger. It does not have to pay more than the proven loss.
$300.00 of the loss is above $4,700. The regulation does not require the airline to pay that part.
- Proven loss: $5,000.00.
- Amount inside the cap: $4,700.00.
- Airline offer: $1,000.00.
- Gap: $3,700.00.
What would change this
A higher proven loss, up to $4,700, or a lower offer, increases the gap.
Next step
Send the airline the proof of value and the depreciation the carrier applies. Wheels, handles, and zippers are not excluded as ordinary wear when the damage is more than fair wear.
Send the proof while the airline claim window is still open. Keep a copy.
This tool gives general information. It is not legal advice. Laws differ by state and change. Check the result with a licensed attorney or a legal aid office before you act.
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Show the working
- Source: U.S. Department of Transportation, Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage, checked 2026-10-04.
- Domestic maximum liability amount allowed by the regulation: $4,700 per passenger.
- Assistive devices follow a different rule. Use the assistive-device tool for a wheelchair or similar device.
Data as of 2026-10-04. Source: U.S. Department of Transportation — Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage.
What this does not cover
- Airlines may exclude some items in the contract of carriage for domestic travel.
- The tool does not apply depreciation.
- It does not file a complaint.
This tool gives general information. It is not legal advice. Laws differ by state and change. Check the result with a licensed attorney or a legal aid office before you act.
Send the proof while the airline claim window is still open. Keep a copy.