How long does it take to get a refundable deposit back from a hotel?

Hotels set their own refund timelines, so there is no fixed number of days. Most will process a refund to your original payment method within a week or two of receiving your cancellation. Some hotels may hold the money until they confirm they have not charged you for anything else, such as a room service bill. If you paid by credit card, the refund might appear a little faster, but it still depends on the hotel's finance team. Always cancel in writing and keep the confirmation. If you have not seen the refund after 10 working days, call the hotel's accounts department rather than the front desk. Ask for a reference number and a date they say the refund will be sent. If the hotel refuses to refund a deposit you believe is refundable, check your booking terms. If the terms say refundable, you can escalate to the card provider or a dispute scheme, but that takes longer. For wedding block bookings, hotels often have different rules, so read the contract you signed, not just the booking website. If you are unsure, ask the hotel manager directly and get their answer in writing.