Preauth Capture

Overview

Preauth capture is the subsequent step following preauthorization. During this phase, the merchant formally requests the transfer of funds from the cardholder's account to the merchant's account for a specified amount. The funds that were previously held are now transferred.

It is typically employed when the final transaction amount is known and can be charged to the customer. For instance, when a hotel guest checks out, the hotel captures the funds for the total bill.

Understanding Preauthorization Capture

Preauth capture finalizes a successful preauthorization. Key aspects include:

1. Final Amount: The merchant, now aware of the final transaction amount, initiates the capture process.
2. Funds Transfer: Funds that were previously held during preauthorization are now formally transferred from the cardholder's account to the merchant's account.

Processing Preauth Capture with POS and Microservices

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

Step 1: POS Initiates the Preauth Capture 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 capture 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 capture 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 Sends Pre-Authorization Request to Terminal

1. Validated Request: Once the preauthorization intent is validated, the microservice sends the pre-authorization request to the payment terminal device.
2. Request Details: This request includes comprehensive details about the preauthorization, including the total amount, reference to the original transaction, and any other relevant information.

Step 4: Terminal Processes the Preauth

1. Transaction Completion: The payment terminal processes the preauthorization request, ensuring the funds are reserved for the intended transaction.
2. Order Details: After the preauthorization operation is completed, relevant order details are presented, confirming the successful capture of funds.