Why does Pinterest Ads deduct small test charges on my VCC before approving it?

Pinterest Ads, like many online platforms, often deduct small test charges on your Virtual Credit Card (VCC) to verify that the payment method is valid and can be used for future transactions. This process is a common part of the payment authorization procedure. Here's why Pinterest does this and how it works:

1. Verification of Payment Method
Testing for validity: When you add a new payment method, Pinterest Ads will often make a small temporary charge (usually between $1 and $5) to ensure that the VCC is active and that there are sufficient funds or credit available. This ensures that the card is valid and that there is no risk of billing issues.

Authorization process: The small test charge is typically not a real charge but rather an authorization hold. This hold confirms that the card is valid and can handle future charges. If the VCC passes the test, the amount is typically refunded or released after a short period (usually within a few days).

2. Ensuring Proper Billing
Preventing fraud: Small test charges help prevent fraud and confirm that the payment method provided is legitimate and belongs to the account holder.

Avoiding chargebacks: By verifying that the VCC can process payments before using it for a full campaign spend, Pinterest helps reduce the likelihood of chargebacks or payment issues later on.

3. Temporary Authorization Hold
What is an authorization hold?: An authorization hold is a temporary, pending transaction placed on your VCC to ensure the card has available credit. The amount is not actually deducted from your account, but the VCC provider temporarily "holds" that amount, making it unavailable for other purchases.

Refund or Release: After the test is complete, Pinterest should either refund or release the hold, meaning the amount will be returned to your available balance, and it will not be a permanent charge.

4. Why Do They Do This?
Payment Security: This is a security measure to ensure that there is a real, working payment method linked to your Pinterest Ads account. It helps Pinterest ensure that any future charges (like ad campaign spend) can be processed smoothly.

Preventing Billing Errors: By verifying the VCC upfront, Pinterest avoids the possibility of charging an invalid or inactive payment method for ongoing ad spend, which could disrupt your campaigns.

5. How Long Does It Take to Refund the Test Charge?
Typically, the test charge should disappear or be refunded within 2–5 business days. In most cases, it won't appear as an actual charge on your statement once the verification process is complete. However, if you see this test charge remaining for a longer period, you may need to contact Pinterest Ads support for clarification.

6. What to Do if You See the Charge
Don't worry immediately: If you notice a small test charge on your VCC, it's likely part of the normal verification process. As long as the charge is small and marked as a temporary hold, it should be refunded shortly.

Monitor your VCC account: If the charge doesn't disappear or you notice any issues after a few days, check your VCC's online portal or app to see if the hold was released. If it's still pending, contact Pinterest Ads support to inquire about the issue.

7. Can You Avoid the Test Charge?
Unfortunately, there's no way to completely avoid this test charge, as it is part of Pinterest's process for validating payment methods. However, ensuring that your VCC is active and has sufficient funds can help avoid any issues during this process.

Conclusion:
The small test charge Pinterest Ads places on your VCC is a routine part of their payment verification process. It helps ensure that your payment method is valid and ready for future transactions. Typically, the charge is only a temporary authorization hold and should be refunded or released within a few days. If you have concerns or the charge remains, reach out to Pinterest Ads support for assistance.