Why Is My Bank Showing a $10 Hold When My Wash Cost Less?

If you've used a credit or debit card at The Wash Stop, you may notice a temporary $10 authorization hold on your account.

This is normal and does not mean you were charged $10.

What Is a Card Authorization Hold?

When you start a wash using a credit or debit card, your bank temporarily sets aside a small amount to confirm that the card is valid and has available funds.

At The Wash Stop, that temporary authorization amount is $10.

This process is similar to what happens at gas stations, hotels, and many automated payment systems.

Why Is the Hold Higher Than the Minimum Wash Price?

The Wash Stop is a self-serve facility.

Because each customer controls how long they wash, the system does not know the final amount when the wash begins.

The authorization hold allows the wash to start while your actual usage is being calculated.

What Will I Actually Be Charged?

You are charged only for the time and services you use.

For example:

• If your wash costs $5.00, your final charge is $5.00.

• If your wash costs $8.75, your final charge is $8.75.

• If your wash costs $15.50, your final charge is $15.50.

The temporary authorization hold is replaced by the actual transaction amount.

How Long Does the Hold Last?

Most authorization holds disappear automatically once your bank receives the final transaction amount.

The timing varies by bank and card issuer.

Many banks update the transaction within a few hours, while others may take several business days.

The Wash Stop does not control how quickly your bank releases authorization holds.

I See a $10 Pending Charge. Was I Charged Twice?

Usually, no.

In most cases, what you're seeing is:

1. A temporary authorization hold.

2. A separate final transaction that is still being processed.

Once processing is complete, the authorization hold will disappear and only the actual wash amount will remain.

What If the Hold Doesn't Go Away?

If several business days have passed and the authorization still appears, contact your bank first.

Banks control the release of authorization holds and can typically provide the fastest explanation for what you're seeing.

If you still have questions, feel free to contact The Wash Stop and we'll be happy to help.

The Bottom Line

The temporary $10 authorization hold is not your final wash charge. It simply allows the payment system to verify your card before the wash begins. Once processing is complete, you'll be charged only for the services you actually used.