Why Does Walmart Charge Me Twice for an Online Order? An In-Depth Guide

Has this ever happened to you: you place an online order, only to find two pending charges on your credit card, with just a difference of one cent between them? This article will explore the reasons behind this common occurrence and provide solutions to ensure a smoother shopping experience.

Understanding Pending Charges and Pre-Authorization

When you see low charges like this on your credit card, it is usually because someone verifies that the credit card, debit card, or other payment method is valid and can be used. This verification is often referred to as pre-authorization.

When you set up a new account with banks, PayPal, or other payment providers, they may send a small deposit and ask the recipient to check their account to verify the amount. This process confirms that the account is open and functioning properly.

Common Scenarios for Double Charges

Page loading errors or accidental reorders can cause double charges. Many online shoppers, including myself, have experienced this issue with Walmart. Here’s what might be happening:

Poor internet connectivity or page loading errors can cause users to hit the 'Order' button multiple times accidentally. Walmart, like other retailers, has a high rate of customer service. Try contacting them to prevent the order from shipping.

Even if your first payment attempt fails, some retailers hold the payment temporarily. When the payment finally goes through, you may see both the initial pending charge and the final amount on your card.

Verification Processes in Place

Most sales tax is fractional, requiring payment, even for small amounts. However, some retailers, like Walmart, may charge pending amounts during order verification and then adjust the charges once the order is delivered.

Specific Case: Walmart and EBT/Credit Card Issues

Some users have reported a particularly frustrating issue with Walmart. They charge a pending amount for EBT or credit card payments, while Walmart Capital One credit card users face double charges. The phrase 'temporary holds are NOT charges' often misleads customers.

This behavior frustrates many users, as it creates additional confusion and sometimes panic. For instance, a user noticed that the pending charge and the final amount posted, leaving them relieved but exhausted from the process.

Suggestions for Handling the Issue

These issues can be resolved by:

Contacting customer service immediately. Walmart's customer service is highly regarded, comparable to Nordstrom in terms of efficiency. Verifying payment methods to ensure they are correct and valid. Checking the order history to track the status of the order and any pending charges.

Conclusion

While it can be frustrating to face double charges or pending amounts from Walmart, understanding the verification processes and methods to handle these issues can make the experience smoother. Keep your customer service representatives informed, verify your payment methods, and stay organized with your order history.

Do you have any other experiences or questions about online ordering and payment verification? Share your thoughts in the comments below!