How Paying for Calls Works

1. Authorization vs. Charges

When you pay by card, there are two steps:

• Authorization: This is just a temporary hold to make sure funds are available. No money actually leaves your account yet.
• Charge (Settlement): This is when the money is officially transferred.

2. Paying By Phone

• First 5 minutes: $10 minimum. We place a $10 authorization on your card when you start the call. Whether you talk 3 minutes or the full 5, the charge is $10 once the call ends.
• Extending a call: If you add more time, we place a hold for the full extension (e.g., $40 for 20 extra minutes). You only pay for the actual time you use. Talk 3 minutes? You're charged $6, and the remaining hold disappears.
• Agent acceptance: Your card is only authorized when the agent presses “1” to accept your call. If the agent doesn't answer, no hold is placed—you can just try another agent.

3. Paying Online

• Think of it like a prepaid account. You can deposit any amount and use it over time. Your money stays safe until you use it, letting you manage multiple calls without repeated transactions. Many clients deposit $100+ to cover calls throughout the month.

4. How Long Does a Hold Last

• Holds usually last 24 hours to 3 days, depending on your bank. Debit cards may vary.
• If a hold appears but no call was made, you can contact your bank after 24 hours to release it. We can't remove holds on your bank's side.