Tesco has revealed changes in the way it charges motorists for fuel to its payroll at pumping stations.
The supermarket giant is replacing the £ 1 pre-authorization fee for Pay at Pump transactions with a £ 99 deposit instead.
The changes, which are currently being tested, were made because the rules were changed by card companies, including Mastercard, Visa and American Express, Tesco says.
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If the trial is successful, it is understood that the changes will be rolled out across the UK later this year.
This means that drivers who refuel will see up to £ 99 placed on their card as a deposit for their fuel, reports TeessideLive.
Previously, all Pay at Pump transactions were allowed by requesting a £ 1 transaction from card issuers before taking payment for the fuel value one to three days later.
(Image: Joseph Raynor / Nottingham Post)
Three years ago, Asda was forced to suspend a similar program following complaints from motorists.
Here’s everything you need to know, what Tesco says and why the changes are being made:
What are the changes?
Previously, all Pay at Pump transactions were authorized by requesting a £ 1 transaction from your card issuer before taking the fuel value payment one to three days later, Tesco explains.
“Under new rules implemented by Mastercard, Visa and American Express, we now have to request authorization from your card issuer up to £ 99,” a spokesperson said.
“Once you are done refueling, the final transaction amount is sent to your card issuer, and any unused funds up to the maximum refill amount will be returned to your available balance.
“We will only charge you for the value of the fuel you actually bought. “
Why are the changes being made?
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The rules have been changed by Mastercard, Visa and American Express to help cardholders keep control of their budgets in real time, the supermarket said.
What if I don’t have £ 99 in my account?
Tesco says that if your account balance is less than £ 99, your card issuer should respond with the lowest amount it will allow and the fuel pump screen will show the value you can fill.
Some card issuers may not allow partial authorizations below £ 99 and the advice is to try another card.
Will my statement show a transaction of £ 99?
Tesco says it will never charge drivers more than the value of the fuel they bought, but advises people to speak to their bank if they have concerns.
Where can I get more information?
Tesco’s website directs customers to their card issuing bank and the Mastercard, Visa and UK Finance web pages.
What about other supermarkets and pay at the pump?
The changes will be made to cover all payments at gas stations at the pump, as they are conducted by card companies, including Mastercard and Visa.
According to the Mastercard website: “The way you pay for your fuel at an automated fuel pump in the UK is changing. Your card / bank issuer will temporarily reserve up to £ 99 of your available balance. while you refuel.
“Then when you are done refueling you will be billed for the correct amount of fuel you used and the remainder of the reserved funds will be returned to your available balance. “