When authorizing a card transaction, some merchants, such as gas stations, car rental companies, or hotels, pre-authorize an initially higher amount on your card since they do not yet know the final amount of your transaction. For example, gas stations pre-authorize $75 to $100 when you first swipe your card at the pump. Hotels tend to pre-authorize much more significant amounts. This helps them ensure you have sufficient funds for a high charge.

The hold is removed after receipt of the final payment amount. However, the hold may take up to seven (7) days (and up to thirty 30 days for hotels) to clear. During the hold period, you will not have access to funds in your Account for the pre-authorized amount.

You can completely avoid card pre-authorization situations at the gas pump by first going inside the gas station shop and pre-paying a set amount to the cashier.