Can a pending transaction be voided?

Asked by: Joseph Heidenreich  |  Last update: January 12, 2026
Score: 4.3/5 (32 votes)

An unsettled transaction can be voided which stops the transaction from processing and removes it from the customer's account, effectively canceling the transaction. Once a transaction has been settled, it can only be refunded. A partial refund can only be made to a settled transaction.

Is it possible to cancel a pending transaction?

To cancel a pending credit card transaction before it's complete, start by calling the merchant directly. Ask the merchant or retailer to reverse the charge, cancel the sale or release the hold for the confirmed amount. The sooner you contact the merchant, the more likely the pending transaction can be canceled.

Can a pending transaction be dropped?

They show up almost immediately after a purchase is made, but they haven't fully "posted" to your account until the merchant processes them on their end. For this reason, pending transactions can change or even be removed before they post, depending on how the merchant handles the final billing.

Can a pending transaction be reversed?

Unfortunately, canceling a pending transaction isn't always simple. If you're trying to remove a hold or a pending transaction before it posts, you'll need to contact the merchant and ask them to remove the authorization. Once your transaction is finalized, however, you have more power in reversing the charge.

How long do I have to void a transaction?

A void transaction cancels a credit or debit card transaction before the funds have been transferred from the customer's account to the business's account. Timing: Voiding is typically done shortly after the transaction is initiated, often within the same business day.

Can a pending transaction be Cancelled?

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Can a pending transaction be declined?

Can pending transactions be declined? Banks and credit card issuers might decline pending transactions, especially if the transaction amount exceeds your available funds. That's why it's good to keep track of your account activity to avoid overdraft fees and penalties—if your bank still charges them.

What makes a transaction void?

A void transaction is a debit or credit card transaction that is canceled by the merchant before it is settled by the cardholder's bank and the merchant has received payment. Transactions are often voided when customers or merchants discover that an error has occurred or when fraud is suspected.

Can I tell my bank to stop a pending transaction?

So, can banks call off pending transactions? The answer is yes, but while merchants can give back a refund within a few days, banks may take several weeks to work through this operation.

Can pending money be taken back?

It can be difficult to cancel a pending transaction once it's listed in your account summary​. That's because both you and your bank have approved the payment. And you may have received the goods or services already. You might be able to contact the retailer and chat through potential options.

Can banks override pending transactions?

If the vendor takes too long to accept the money, the bank can cancel the transfer. If that happens, the pending transaction will vanish from your account, along with the charge against your balance.

Will a pending transaction definitely go through?

A pending credit card purchase might be declined if another merchant has placed a hold on your credit card. A pending purchase made with your bank account or credit card could be declined if your account doesn't have enough funds or the merchant won't accept payment from your bank.

Can I tell my bank to block a transaction?

To stop payment, you need to notify your bank at least three business days before the transaction is scheduled to be made and your bank may charge a fee. The notice to stop the transaction may be made orally or in writing. A bank can require written confirmation of an oral stop payment request.

Can a pending charge be dropped?

If you want to cancel a pending transaction, you'll need to reach out to the merchant. They can then contact your credit card issuer to cancel the payment.

Can I call my bank to cancel a payment?

The process of issuing a stop payment order varies based on your bank or financial institution. For example, some banks may require a phone call to provide verbal consent, while others may prefer written permission. Some banks may also charge a fee for issuing a stop payment.

Will a pending transaction be refunded?

No, you typically can't cancel a pending transaction. However, if the transaction is erroneous or unauthorized, you can contact your bank or credit card issuer to dispute the charge after it has been posted.

Are pending transactions final?

It's also common to see this when online shopping, as some merchants may hold off on processing the payment until your order has shipped, this includes international purchases too. Essentially, pending transactions mean the money has been committed to a specific purchase, but it's still moving between accounts.

How do I reverse a pending transaction?

How do I stop a pending debit transaction? You can stop a pending debit card transaction by contacting the merchant and canceling the purchase. Or you can try contacting your bank if you don't recognize the transaction, you suspect fraud is involved, or the merchant is unresponsive.

Can pending money be reversed?

Once a transaction appears as pending on your account, you're unable to stop or cancel the transaction until it's complete.

Does "pending" mean "already paid"?

When a payment is marked as “pending” it means that the payment process still needs to be completed. In most cases, this simply means that you need to wait for this to happen. In some cases, however, the merchant may need to take action.

Can a bank reverse a payment after it has posted?

Yes, in some cases a bank can reverse a payment after it has been posted. This typically occurs when there is evidence of fraudulent activity, unauthorized transactions, or if the payment violates the bank's policies or legal regulations.

Can you put a stop payment on a pending ACH transaction?

Yes, you can typically amend or cancel an ACH transfer by contacting your bank. If the transaction hasn't been initiated yet, you may be able to stop it from happening. If the transfer has already cleared, you'll need to work with your bank to reverse the ACH transaction.

How long can a transaction be pending?

Key takeaways. Pending charges on credit cards are temporary holds to ensure payment for potential damages or incidental expenses. Pending charges typically take up to three days to clear with the merchant, but can take longer. Issues with pending charges should be resolved with the merchant, not the card issuer.

How to get a transaction reversed?

In order to receive reimbursement via a reversal transaction, you must contact your bank to cancel and reverse the payment. You can also contact the merchant to confirm that they have not yet received the payment and to explain your reasons for seeking a reversal transaction.

What are 3 things that can cause a contract to be void?

What Makes A Contract Null And Void
  • Uncertainty or Ambiguity. ...
  • Lack of Legal Capacity. ...
  • Incomplete Terms. ...
  • Misrepresentation or Fraud. ...
  • Common Mistake. ...
  • Duress or Undue Influence. ...
  • Public Policy or Illegal Activity.

What happens if a merchant does not take a pending transaction?

If the money isn't collected within a certain time, the transaction status will change to 'Reverted' and the money will be returned to your account. If a merchant cancels the payment, the transaction will remain pending for a few days. Then the money will be returned to your account once processed.