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Credit or debit card blocking most often occurs when you rent a car or check into a hotel. When your card is scanned at check-in, the merchant may electronically request that your card issuer “block” or reserve part of your available credit or account balance to cover expected charges.

For hotels, the blocked amount may include the full cost of your stay plus estimated expenses such as meals or phone charges. For car rentals, the block may include the rental fee plus potential refueling costs.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the amount blocked varies widely among merchants. Card blocking is legal as long as the amount is reasonably related to what you are likely to owe. If you are far from your credit limit or account balance threshold, you may not notice the block. However, if you are close to your limit, your next transaction could be declined.

Tips from the FTC

• Use the same card to pay the final bill. This allows the actual charge to replace the block within a day or two. If you use a different card, the original block may remain for up to 15 days.
   
• Ask how much will be blocked. When checking in or picking up a rental car, ask the clerk how the block amount is determined so you can plan your spending accordingly.
   
• If you pay with a different card or cash, request removal of the block. Ask the clerk to release the block or contact your card issuer directly.
   
• Compare card issuer policies. If you are choosing a new credit card, consider calling issuers to ask about their blocking practices.