Recently we were made aware that Visa has increased their pre-authorization hold levels for the pay-at-the-pump convenience for buying gasoline. Visa is increasing the pre-authorization hold level from $100 to $175 to accommodate the recent rise in fuel prices across the nation.
Gas merchants, to protect themselves from any potential fraud, put pre-authorization holds into place at the pump. Pre-authorization limits apply to fuel purchases at the pump because the final amount is not known until the customer is finished pumping gas and the merchant wants to ensure the transaction will clear the bank.
The new fraud-liability threshold of $175 helps merchants and drivers alike. Visa cardholders who drive larger SUVs or trucks won’t have to resort to two transactions to top off their tanks and fuel stations maintain a greater protection against potential fraud.
While not all gas stations use these limit and hold methods; generally speaking, you can avoid them by going inside to pay at the register or paying with cash. If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Operations Department at (360) 754-3400 or [email protected].
