Some merchants will request an authorization for a “general” amount. The authorization amount can be lower or higher than the actual transaction amount. The authorization will show as a pending transaction and will place a hold on funds affecting your available balance. At the time the transaction settles, your account is charged the actual amount of the transaction and the authorization is removed. For Example:

For gas purchases an authorization is requested prior to dispensing fuel. Most pay-at-the-pump gas purchases are initially authorized for $1. Only the actual amount of the purchase will post to your account when the transaction settles.

For restaurants an authorization prior to a tip being added. In this case, the authorization amount may be lower than the actual transaction amount. When the transaction settles you will be charged the final purchase amount (total bill + tip).

For Hotel/Cruise/Car Rental an authorization in the amount equal to the entire stay plus an estimated amount for incidentals may be used. This can also be true for car rentals and cruise lines, which may include deposits and/or other fees.