Do you get a refund if TSA makes you miss your flight? Will TSA reimburse you? See your options

More than 18 million passengers expected to fly for the July Fourth holiday, and those travelers (along with four letters on your boarding pass) could lead to longer wait times in the TSA line. But if you miss your flight due to a TSA screening, are you owed a refund?

Here's what travelers should know.

What happens if you miss your flight due to TSA lines? Do you get a refund?

A missed flight due to TSA delays generally won't lead to a refund from your airline.

TSA says you can file a claim if you are injured or your property is lost or damaged during the security screening process. However, the claims process can take up to six months.

Personal issues, such as being late for your flight, won't get you a refund except under limited circumstances, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The DOT states that airlines are not expected to issue a refund to travelers except for special cases such as canceled or delayed flights or class of service changes. The agency recommends contacting the airline directly if you believe that you are entitled to a refund.

How early should I arrive at the airport to beat TSA wait times?

It's generally recommended by airlines to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. Travelers should bank even more time for international flights.

This helps give you enough time to get to your gate on time, even with additional TSA holdups. The "My TSA" app allows passengers to check airport security wait times and "post airport delays reported by fellow travelers in real time, confirm what items can be brought through security, and review other tips for travelers from TSA."

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: TSA search made you miss your flight — can you get a refund? What to know