Pre-Authorization/Holds
A standard pre-authorization is completed with each order placed and amount fully charged once the order has processed for shipping.
This is NOT a charge on your credit card; it simply verifies the available funds.
Once the pre-authorization expires, the funds are automatically released back to your account.
Pre-Authorization Timeframes
Pre-authorization holds typically last 1–10 business days, but some banks/accounts may take up to 30 days or until the end of your billing cycle.
Common Scenarios Leading to Pre-Authorizations
Order Not Completed: If the order process wasn’t completed, such as due to a technical issue or payment page freezing, a pre-authorization may still be placed on your account. This does not mean the order went through.
No Order Confirmation Email: If you didn’t receive an order confirmation email but see a pending charge, there’s a good chance no order was created, and the charge is a pre-authorization hold.
Cancelled Order: your card will not be charged but will see a pre-authorization.
Sold Out Order: your card will not be charged but will see a pre-authorization.
Steps You Can Take
Customers do not need to take any action for the hold to be removed, unless it does not drop off as expected.
Monitor Your Account: Keep an eye on your statement to confirm when the pre-authorization hold is removed.
Contact Your Bank: If the hold hasn’t disappeared after 30 days, reach out to your financial institution for clarification.
Verify with the Merchant: If you’re unsure whether an order was created, check with the merchant. You may be asked to provide details such as the payment method used, the first and last four digits of the card, and the amount charged.