We are very sorry you encountered a problem with your bank when using a debit card for a lodging stay. For convenience sake, we authorized room and tax charges plus $30 for incidentals (food, telephone, etc...) at check-in so our guests could have charging privileges to their rooms. Unfortunately banks treat debit and credit cards differently, clearing credit card authorizations immediately, but taking as long as 7-14 days to clear extra authorizations on debit cards. This bank policy has frustrated our guests, and also our management staff when we contact the cardholder's bank on our guests behalf to try to get them to release the authorizations in a more timely manner. Some banks comply, some do not, hence we have a framed notice on our front desk advising guests of potential issues in using a debit vs. credit card for their stay. This authorization is not a "fee" or is "used" by the hotels for a period of time, we have no access to these funds other than what the cardholder actually charges to their room.

Nevertheless, as more people travel with debit cards rather than credit cards, it becomes a more common occurrence when a bank holds their funds in limbo for a period of time. Therefore we have changed our hotel policy to meet the needs of an increasing segment of our guests. When a guest presents a debit card at check in, we will authorize room and tax only to the card. If they wish to also have charging options to their guest room for convenience sake, we will gladly accept a credit card for that purpose. If not, they are free to decline that option, no additional deposit will be required.

Once again, we are very sorry for your inconvenience but appreciate you taking the opportunity to tell us about your experience. It is through our guest feedback that we can continually improve our operations to meet their needs.