Changing ticket booked online on day of travel?

[econgirl]

Hi guys
I am sure this is a stupid question, but I have booked a return ticket Dublin-Limerick with the return portion leaving Limerick at 14:55 - however as I have a feeling I may be able to make the 13:55 train on the day, all going well, I was wondering if I arrive at the ticket office in time, is there any way of exchanging the ticket for one for the earlier train, or because I have booked it online I take it this is not possible and I just have to sit and wait (which is understandable as that's the train I booked in fairness!).

Thanks a million :)

[Mark Gleeson]

If you are early at Limerick, go to the booking office, present the ticket and one of three things will happen, it depends on what you paid

1. Ticket will be endorsed for the 13:55 at no charge
2. You will have to pay the difference between the fare on the 14:55 and 13:55 and ticket is then endorsed
3. You must travel on the train as booked, if the 13:55 is sold out

Student & faircard tickets are endorsed for free subject to the train you choose not being sold out

Under no circumstances should you board the 13:55 unless the ticket is endorsed valid on that train, a 100 euro fine awaits if you do.

[Thomas Ralph]

It also depends on the booking office staff member that you get as well as what you paid. :/

[econgirl]

Thanks for the advice guys! I was definitely not just going to board the earlier train with the later ticket without asking at the desk.

I see the fare to Limerick one way is €50 according to the irish rail site, so now I think the best plan is probably to book another cheap web €15 single for the earlier train as well - I know one will go to waste but at least it will only cost me €15 extra.

[Mark Gleeson]

The cash fare is 58 euro return, or 50 euro single

Online a single ticket is between 10 and 29 euro based on the trains you choose

[Thomas Ralph]

If you are able to do so before the train departs I believe you can email IÉ to cancel the unused ticket. If you have collected it you have to post it in, otherwise they will just cancel it off the system. You'll get a 50% refund.

[econgirl]

Thanks again guys - very helpful, much appreciated :)