Certified Travel Agent Practice Test

If it's difficult to obtain credit card authorization, what should you do?

1. Complete the transaction and obtain authorization afterward

2. Decline the transaction until authorization is received

3. Document the attempt and proceed without authorization

4. Take the card information but do nothing until later

The correct answer is: Decline the transaction until authorization is received

In situations where obtaining credit card authorization proves to be challenging, the best course of action is to decline the transaction until proper authorization is received. This approach adheres to industry standards and practices for preventing fraud and ensuring that the payment process is secure. By waiting for authorization, you confirm that the cardholder has sufficient funds and that the transaction is legitimate, minimizing the risk associated with unauthorized charges or potential chargebacks. Accepting a transaction without authorization can expose both the merchant and the customer to financial liability. It is essential to maintain a trustworthy and secure transaction environment, which is compromised if transactions are processed without proper verification. Prioritizing this step protects the client's interests and helps maintain the integrity of the payment system.