Glossary
What is Pre-authorisation?
Holding an amount on a guest’s card before the final bill, often for a bar tab.
Pre-authorisation, explained
A pre-authorisation places a temporary hold on a card. The final amount is charged later, and the hold is released. Bars use it to open tabs; hotels and rentals use it for deposits.
Why it matters for your restaurant
It reduces walk-outs on tabs, but holds must be handled carefully so guests aren’t charged twice.
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