Frequently Asked Questions

The pre-authorization amount for a chat session on our platform is determined by two factors: the per-minute rate set by the independent seller and the anticipated duration of the chat.
 

So for example: the person you're chatting with, we'll call them the "seller", sets a price of $1.99 for each minute of the chat. They think the chat might last about 20 minutes.
 

Before you start chatting, we need to make sure your card can cover the cost. So, we do a quick check, or "pre-authorization". This is just a temporary hold, not an actual charge. Any left over amount when the session ends will be automatically credit back to the card you used, and detailed records can be found in your receipts on our site.

Here's how we figure out the amount:
 

We take the cost per minute ($1.99) and multiply it by the expected chat time (20 minutes). So, $1.99 times 20 equals $39.80. This is the amount we check your card for.
 

Remember, we only do this check when the seller is ready and accepts the chat. And, for per minute chat you only get billed for the time you actually spend chatting. If you extend your chat because you'd like to chat longer than expected, we'll let you know before you are pre-authorized again when any extra time is added.

How to find the Pre-authorization amount
 

To see the pre-authorzation amount go to the seller's profile, and look for the price per minute. Next to the price per minute you will see an "i" that is highlighted. When you click or hover over it you will see the amount of time set for the chat, the price per minute, and the pre-authorization amount. You can see this before you decide to begin your session to ensure your card has enough funds beforehand. This way when your chat is accepted it will work successfully.
 

A card pre-authorization is a common practice in many businesses, including online services like Premium.Chat. The primary reasons for pre-authorizing a card are:

Verification: Pre-authorization checks whether the card is valid and has sufficient funds for the transaction. This ensures that the service can be provided without interruptions.

Fraud prevention: Pre-authorization helps in preventing fraudulent activities.

Securing Payment: In businesses where the final amount may vary, such as a pay-per-minute chat, pre-authorization secures the payment for the estimated service amount. If the actual service usage exceeds the pre-authorized amount, further authorizations can be made such as extending your session, and media purchases.

Remember, a pre-authorization is not a charge. It's a temporarily holds a specific amount on your card to ensure that those funds are available when the actual final charge is made.  The amount of your pre-authorization will vary depending on who you plan to chat with. To learn more about the pre-authorization amount read here.

How Your Billing is Finalized

When your session ends, the settled amount used is billed and displayed to you. This amount can also be found in the receipt history of your account. Any remaining blocked amount from the pre-authorization is released back to your account. The timing for this can vary depending on your bank's policies which is usually several business days.

Per Minute: When you choose a pay per minute option, you will only be billed for time used.  Any remaining unused funds will be returned to your card.

Flat Rate: When you choose a flat rate option, you will be billed the full amount regardlress of the time used which means no funds will be returned to your card. All minutes are used up when your session ends.

The exact timeline for when a pre-authorization automatically drops off your card can vary depending on the financial institution that issued your card. Generally, it takes about 2-5 business days (not including weekends which are non business days) for the pre-authorization to be removed. In some cases it may take longer. Please be rest assured that your funds will be returned.  At Premium.Chat when you have selected per minute billing, you will only be billed for time used. To see the exact amount you are billed go to your receipts.
 

If a pre-authorization hold has not dropped off after 10 business days, or if you have any other concerns about it, it's a good idea to check with your bank or credit card company directly for assistance. They have access to the most current information about your account and can give you accurate information about the status of pre-authorization holds. If you need further assistance, or have a concern you may contact us using the contact form.
 

For a thorough understanding of how pre-authorizations work on the Premium.Chat platform, please review the following FAQ questions for more details:
 

Why do you pre-authorize my card?
What is the amount of the pre-authorization?