Preauth Cancel

Overview

Preauth Cancel (Void): Sometimes, a preauthorized transaction needs to be canceled before it's captured. In this case, a "cancel" or "void" operation is performed. A cancel operation releases the hold on the funds, ensuring that they are not transferred to the merchant. The canceled amount is then made available again to the cardholder.

Canceling a preauthorization is common in situations where the customer decides not to proceed with the purchase or when the final amount is lower than initially authorized (e.g., if a customer cancels part of an order).

Processing Preauth Cancel with POS and Microservices

This section outlines the steps involved in processing a preauth cancel using an integrated approach with a Point of Sale (POS) system and microservices:

Step 1: POS Initiates the Preauth Cancel Request Using API

1. Customer Interaction: The process begins when a customer approaches the Point of Sale (POS) terminal.
2. API Request: The POS system initiates the preauthorization cancel request by sending a POST request via an API to the payment processing service.

Step 2: Microservice Validates and Prepares the Request

1. Request Validation: The microservice receives the preauthorization cancellation intent from the POS system.
2. Validation Process: It conducts a thorough validation of the received parameters to ensure accuracy and validity.

Step 3: Microservice Creates a Pre-Authorization Request to Terminal

1. Validated Request: Once the preauthorization intent is validated, the microservice prepares a pre-authorization cancellation request to be sent to the connected payment terminal.
2. Request Details: This request includes comprehensive details about the original transaction, ensuring a smooth cancellation process.

Step 4: Terminal Processes the Preauth Cancel

1. Cancellation Completion: The payment terminal processes the preauthorization cancellation request, releasing the held funds.
2. Order Details: After the preauthorization cancellation operation is completed, relevant order details are presented, confirming the successful cancellation.