Credit Card Processing for Hotels and Hospitality
Hotels, inns and vacation rentals need processing that integrates with their property management system and handles pre-authorizations, incremental authorizations and delayed charges correctly. Getting those transaction types right avoids downgrades and keeps rates low.
What processing problems do hospitality face?
- Pre-auth and incidental holds handled incorrectly
- PMS locked to an expensive processor
- Card-not-present bookings and no-show disputes
- Multiple outlets (restaurant, spa, gift shop)
What does a typical setup look like?
- PMS-integrated terminals
- Online booking engine payments
- Outlet POS for food and beverage
- Virtual terminal for phone reservations
What POS features matter most?
- PMS integration
- Incremental authorizations
- Folio posting from outlets
- Tokenized card-on-file
What should you look for in a provider?
- Hospitality-specific transaction support
- Interchange-plus pricing
- Integration with your PMS
- Dispute support for no-shows
FAQ: credit card processing for hospitality
Why do hotels pre-authorize cards?
To reserve funds for the stay and incidentals. Using the right authorization types avoids downgrades and failed captures.
Can I change processors without changing my PMS?
Often, if your PMS supports multiple processors. Some PMS vendors require their own payments product.
How do I win no-show disputes?
Keep a clear cancellation policy accepted at booking, confirmation emails and proof the guest was informed.
Helpful guides and tools
Get processing quotes for your business
Free, no obligation. Compare multiple providers. Takes about 60 seconds.