I did have to cancel last yr. when my daughter was sick the morning of, and they were nice enough to refund me, which would have opened a party of 2 for someone If it went back in the system, but I am sure it's not typical. It is prepay(gratuity included) or 2 credits if you are on the dining plan and want to use those. If your not already watching the Dec.Cancellled ADR Thread on here as PP mentioned, do that. You can also sign up for free account on Touring Plans website, and try their Reservation Finder, where you can put in what you want, and they send an alert if something becomes available, and you can go on to try to grab it. As others mentioned, at 24-48 hour mark, something could appear. I would call as well as checking the app. If you will be there on your trip during that time, you can also stop at guest services and check, and if staying on property, can ask at the concierge desk. They can look for anything that has opened up. Good luck!