Pending Credit Card Charges Explained

If you see a pending or duplicate charge on your credit card after placing an Institutes order, it’s usually a temporary authorization — not a double charge.

How It Works

• When you place an order, your bank places a temporary hold (authorization) for the full cart amount.
• If you modify your order (e.g., switch courses, apply a credit), the original authorization may still show as pending while a new charge processes.
• Pending authorizations typically drop off within 3–5 business days, depending on your bank.

Common Misunderstandings

• Two charges for the same amount — Usually one is a pending authorization and the other is the actual charge. Only one will settle.
• Charge amount doesn’t match expected total — Pending holds reflect the cart total at the time of authorization, which may differ from the final settled amount if credits were applied.
• Auto-renewal charge — If you have a CEU Unlimited subscription, annual renewal charges are automatic. Contact Customer Success to cancel auto-renewal.