How much does Budget car rental hold on a credit card?

**How much does Budget car rental hold on a credit card?**

When renting a car from Budget, it is common for the company to place a hold on your credit card to cover any potential damages or additional charges. The exact amount that Budget holds on a credit card varies depending on several factors, including the type of rental, the location, and the duration of the rental.

Typically, Budget holds a predetermined authorization amount on your credit card, which is based on an estimate of your total charges. This hold acts as a security deposit and can range anywhere from $200 to $500, or more in some cases. The funds are not actually deducted from your account but are temporarily unavailable for other purchases until the hold is released.

It is important to note that while Budget sets the hold amount, the final charge will only be processed for the actual cost of the rental. Any unused portion of the hold will be released back to your credit card once you return the vehicle in the same condition without any additional charges. However, this process can take several days to reflect in your account, depending on your bank’s policies.

Related FAQs

1. **Can I use a debit card instead of a credit card for the hold?**
Yes, Budget does accept debit cards for the hold. However, it is essential to check with your specific rental location as policies may vary.

2. **Does the hold apply to all types of rentals?**
Yes, the hold applies to all types of rentals, including daily, weekly, and monthly rentals.

3. **Are there any additional factors that may affect the hold amount?**
Yes, additional factors such as the type of vehicle rented, any optional insurance coverage, and the customer’s driving history may impact the hold amount.

4. **Can I use a prepaid credit card for the hold?**
Budget generally does not accept prepaid credit cards for the hold. It is advisable to check with the rental location for their specific policy.

5. **Is the hold amount the same for international rentals?**
The hold amount may vary for international rentals due to different taxes, surcharges, and local policies. It is recommended to contact the rental location directly for accurate information.

6. **Will I be notified of the hold amount before renting the car?**
Budget does not provide the hold amount in advance. However, the estimated total charges can be obtained by contacting the rental location or checking online.

7. **Can I pay for the rental with a different credit card than the one used for the hold?**
Yes, you can use a different credit card for the actual payment when returning the vehicle.

8. **What happens if I return the car without any additional charges?**
If there are no additional charges, the hold amount will be released, and the funds will become available in your account again.

9. **What if the actual charges exceed the hold amount?**
If the actual charges exceed the hold amount, the remaining balance will be charged to the credit card provided at the time of rental.

10. **Can the hold amount be reduced if my rental is extended?**
No, the hold amount remains the same regardless of any extensions to your rental.

11. **Are there any alternatives to the credit card hold?**
Some renters opt for purchasing Budget’s Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) or other protection plans, which may eliminate the need for a credit card hold. However, these options involve additional fees.

12. **What if I have questions or concerns about the hold amount?**
If you have any uncertainties or inquiries regarding the hold amount, it is always best to contact Budget directly to clarify and ensure a smooth rental experience.

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