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Why you may see a pending charge even if no order was completed: understanding authorization holdsUpdated 14 days ago

Why you may see a pending charge even if no order was completed: understanding authorization holds

When a payment attempt is made but an error occurs before checkout is completed, you may still see a “pending” charge on your card or bank statement. This is called an authorization hold. It appears because your bank temporarily reserves the funds the moment you submit your payment details. This step confirms card validity, checks available balance, and performs fraud-prevention screening.

If a timeout, network issue, validation error, or additional security review interrupts the final processing stage, the transaction is never captured and no order is created in our system—even though the temporary hold remains visible on your account.

Why authorization holds happen

  • They ensure funds are available if the transaction is later finalized.
  • They help protect against fraud by verifying payment details before settlement.
  • They allow a merchant to confirm card information without immediately posting a charge.

How long the hold lasts

Authorization holds typically clear automatically within three to seven business days. In less common cases, they may remain visible for up to thirty days, depending on the issuing bank and card network (such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express). During this time, the amount appears as “pending,” but it is not an actual withdrawal.

What customers should know

No funds are permanently taken when an order does not go through. The bank releases the hold on its own, and no action is required from you. If a pending hold does not disappear after thirty days, please reach out so we can assist and follow up with the bank if necessary.

Need assistance?

You can contact our support team through the live chat on the bottom-right corner of our website or by emailing [email protected]. We’re here to help.

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