There are special types of transactions that you should know about.
- Gas Stations - Paying at the pump may cause a minimum hold until the transaction clears; consider paying inside with the attendant for the exact amount and signing the receipt instead.
- Restaurants - Restaurants may authorize your card for the amount of the dining bill to verify you have enough money in your account. Make sure you have enough funds on the card to cover any additional tips or gratuities.
- Hotels - Hotels may put a hold on the amount of your estimated bill, making that amount unavailable for other purchases. When you check out, that hold may take a few days to be removed.
- Auto Rentals - You may use your card for final payment for a rental car bill, however, a credit card may be necessary to reserve a rental car.
- Returning Purchases - Store return policies may vary. You may receive a credit to your card, a cash refund or even a store credit, depending on the particular store. A credit to your account may take up to one week to process before it is available for use.