Does Marriott charge your card at check in or check-out?

Does Marriott charge your card at check in or check-out?

Yes, Marriott hotels typically place an authorization hold on your credit or debit card at the time of check-in. This hold is done to ensure that your card has sufficient funds to cover the estimated charges for your stay, including room rate, taxes, and any incidental expenses. The amount of the hold can vary depending on the hotel’s policy and the length of your stay. Marriott will hold the funds on your card until you check-out, at which point the final charges will be processed. It’s important to note that the authorization hold is not an actual charge, but it may temporarily reduce the available balance on your card.

FAQs about Marriott’s payment process

1. How long does it take for the hold to be released?

The hold placed on your card by Marriott will be released at check-out, but the time it takes for the funds to become available again may vary. Generally, most banks release the hold within 1 to 3 business days. However, some banks may take longer, especially if weekends or holidays are involved. It’s always a good idea to check with your bank for their specific policy regarding the release of authorization holds.

2. Can I use a different payment method at check-out?

Yes, Marriott allows guests to use a different payment method at check-out. If you’d like to pay with a different credit card or use cash instead, simply inform the front desk staff during the check-out process. They will assist you in updating the payment method and finalizing the charges accordingly.

3. What if I don’t have enough funds in my account for the hold?

If you don’t have enough funds in your account to cover the hold, Marriott may decline the transaction or ask for an alternative form of payment. It’s always recommended to ensure that you have sufficient funds available on your card before checking in to avoid any inconvenience.

4. Can I choose to pay for incidentals separately?

Yes, Marriott offers the option to pay for incidentals separately from the room charges. During check-in, you can inform the front desk staff if you wish to have a separate payment method for incidentals such as room service, minibar, or spa services. This allows you to keep your room charges and incidental expenses separate and pay for them accordingly.

5. Do I need to provide a credit card even if I have prepaid my stay?

Yes, even if you have prepaid your stay through an online booking platform or travel agency, Marriott still requires a credit card authorization for incidentals. This is to cover any additional charges that may arise during your stay, such as room service or damage to hotel property. The authorization hold will not include the prepaid room charges.

6. Can I use a debit card for the authorization hold?

Yes, Marriott accepts both credit and debit cards for the authorization hold. However, it’s important to note that when using a debit card, the hold amount may be deducted directly from your bank account. This could temporarily affect your available funds until the hold is released. It’s advisable to check with your bank for their specific policy on debit card holds.

7. What happens if I cancel my reservation?

If you cancel your reservation before the cancellation deadline specified by Marriott, the authorization hold on your card will be released. However, if you cancel after the deadline or fail to show up for your reservation without canceling, you may be subject to a cancellation fee or charged for the first night’s stay.

8. Can I dispute any unauthorized charges?

If you notice any unauthorized charges on your credit card statement from Marriott, it’s important to contact both Marriott’s customer service and your credit card issuer immediately. They will assist you in resolving the issue and initiating a dispute if necessary. Marriott takes guest security and privacy seriously and will work with you to rectify any billing errors or fraudulent charges.

9. Are there any additional fees or charges?

In addition to the room rate and taxes, Marriott may apply additional fees or charges depending on the specific hotel and services used. These can include parking fees, resort fees, or charges for using certain amenities. It’s always recommended to review the hotel’s policies and inquire about any additional fees during the check-in process to avoid any surprises.

10. Can I use a prepaid credit card for the authorization hold?

Marriott generally accepts prepaid credit cards for the authorization hold. However, it’s important to note that the available balance on the prepaid card must be sufficient to cover the estimated charges. Additionally, some prepaid cards may have limitations or restrictions on authorizations, so it’s recommended to check with the card issuer beforehand to ensure smooth processing of the hold.

11. Do all Marriott hotels follow the same payment process?

While most Marriott hotels follow a similar payment process, it’s essential to note that specific policies and procedures can vary between individual hotels and regions. It’s always a good idea to contact the specific Marriott hotel you plan to stay at or visit their official website for detailed information regarding their payment process and any specific policies or requirements.

12. Can I earn Marriott Bonvoy points with my hotel charges?

Yes, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn points on eligible hotel charges during their stay. By providing your membership number at check-in, your eligible charges, such as room rate and qualifying incidentals, will be credited towards your Marriott Bonvoy account. These points can later be redeemed for various rewards, including free nights, room upgrades, and more, depending on your membership tier.

In conclusion, Marriott hotels typically place an authorization hold on your card at check-in to cover the estimated charges. The hold is released at check-out, and the time for the funds to become available again may vary depending on your bank. It’s advisable to check your bank’s policy regarding authorization holds. Marriott offers flexibility in payment method and allows you to pay for incidentals separately if desired. By understanding the payment process, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience during your stay at Marriott hotels.