An authorization is when a certain amount of funds is put on hold. Sometimes known as pre-authorization, which temporarily lock the funds for a particular transaction.
How does it work?
When a reservation request is sent to a host, an authorization is created on your account/credit card. The funds on your available balance are put on hold, but they are still shown on your account balance. This means that the funds haven't left your account.
It is only when the host accepts the booking that this authorization becomes a capture. This is an actual charge, meaning the funds will be deducted from your account at this point.
If the host refuses the booking, or if it expires, the authorization from your bank gets canceled and the funds will get released back into your account. Some banks may take some time to reinstate the funds into your account, but if it takes more than 24 hours please contact your bank directly.
To avoid multiple payment authorizations that block your bank account, we advise you to contact the host first by clicking on the blue button “Contact host”. They will have 24 hours to pre-approve your request. Once you receive a pre-approval, you will have 24 hours to confirm it by making a payment. As no banking information is required to contact the host, no money will be held from your bank account if your request is refused or it expires.
Asking a host about availability is non-committal, and does not require any credit card information. It is encouraged so that you can be in contact with as many hosts as you want before you decide which listing you're going to book. After all, everyone loves having options!