When is My Card Charged?

When backing a project on Kickstarter, it's essential to know when your card will be charged to avoid any surprises. Here's a detailed breakdown of the payment process to help you understand the timeline and what to expect.

Successful Funding

If the project you’re backing is successfully funded, your card will be charged when the project reaches its funding deadline. This means that the moment the campaign ends and meets its funding goal, the pledged amount will be deducted from your account.

Unsuccessful Funding

If the project ends but hasn’t reached its funding goal, your card will never be charged. This protects backers from being charged for projects that do not reach their required funding, ensuring that your money only goes towards viable projects.

Project Cancellation

Similarly, if a project is canceled before it reaches its deadline, then your pledge will not be collected. You won't need to take any additional action; the cancellation will automatically prevent any charges from being made.

Temporary Authorizations

Some backers may notice a temporary authorization of funds at the time of pledging, even before a project has been successfully funded. These authorizations are common and usually drop off after a few days. However, the duration can vary depending on your financial institution.

If you observe an authorization that doesn’t drop after a reasonable period, it’s a good idea to contact your bank or card issuer for more details about their authorization procedure. They can provide insights into why the authorization is still pending and help you resolve any concerns.

Tips for Backers:

1. Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your account for any authorizations or charges, especially when it is close to the project's deadline.
2. Understand Bank Policies: Different banks have varying policies on how long they hold authorizations. Familiarize yourself with your bank's policies to avoid any confusion.
3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on project updates and communication from the project creators. They often provide crucial information about the project's status and funding.
4. Contact Support: If you encounter any issues or have questions, don't hesitate to reach out to Kickstarter support or your financial institution for assistance.

Backing a project on Kickstarter is an exciting process, and understanding when and how your card will be charged helps ensure a smooth and worry-free experience. By keeping these key points in mind, you can back projects with confidence and contribute to bringing innovative ideas to life.