When does airbnb charge your credit card?

Introduction

When it comes to booking accommodations through Airbnb, it’s important to understand how and when your credit card will be charged. In this article, we will dive into the details of when Airbnb charges your credit card, providing you with a clear understanding of the process.

Payment at the Time of Booking

Payment at the time of booking: Airbnb typically charges your credit card at the time of booking. This means that when you find a listing you want to book and proceed with the reservation, Airbnb will request payment for the total cost of the stay, including any applicable fees and taxes. The payment is processed immediately, and you will receive a confirmation of your booking once the transaction is complete.

Security Deposit

Security deposit: In some cases, hosts may require a security deposit to cover any potential damages during your stay. The security deposit is not charged upfront but is instead authorized on your credit card. This means that the funds are held by Airbnb but not immediately deducted from your account. If there are no reported damages or issues after your stay, the hold on the security deposit will be released, and you will not be charged.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation policy: Airbnb offers different cancellation policies, and the timing of when your credit card is charged may vary depending on the policy selected by the host. The most common cancellation policies include Flexible, Moderate, and Strict.

– Flexible cancellation policy: If you book a listing with a Flexible cancellation policy, your credit card will be charged in full at the time of booking. However, if you cancel your reservation within a specified timeframe (usually 24 hours before check-in), you may be eligible for a full or partial refund.
– Moderate cancellation policy: With a Moderate cancellation policy, your credit card will also be charged in full at the time of booking. If you cancel within a specified timeframe (usually 5-14 days before check-in), you may receive a partial refund.
– Strict cancellation policy: The Strict cancellation policy requires full payment at the time of booking, and cancellations may only be eligible for a partial refund if made within a specified timeframe (usually 30 days before check-in).

It’s important to carefully review the cancellation policy of the listing you are booking to understand the potential refund options and any associated charges.

Additional Charges and Fees

Additional charges and fees: Apart from the cost of the stay and security deposit, there may be additional charges and fees associated with your booking. These can include cleaning fees, service fees, and taxes. Airbnb will clearly display these charges before you confirm your reservation, allowing you to review and accept them before proceeding with the payment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Airbnb generally charges your credit card at the time of booking, including the total cost of the stay and any applicable fees. The timing of the charge may vary depending on the cancellation policy selected by the host. Additionally, a security deposit may be authorized on your credit card but not immediately deducted. It’s essential to review the cancellation policy and any additional charges before confirming your reservation to understand the refund options and potential fees.