Real-Time Debit Card Transaction Processing

Citizens Bank processes all debit card account transactions and deposits in real time.

With real-time processing, your account will automatically be updated whenever a transaction is processed with your Citizens Bank debit card. Whether you use your debit card every two minutes or every two hours, you’ll appreciate having the most up-to-date account information available. This information is immediately accessible with your Citizens Bank smartphone app or eBanking account.


How it Works

When you swipe your card at a business, an authorization will take place immediately. This initial authorization will appear right away on your account and be visible to you through eBanking. Once the business closes their debit card transactions and sends them for processing, the actual transaction will post to your account. Depending on when a business processes their activity, a transaction could be pending for 1 day or 3 days.


Debit Card Authorization Vs. Posted Transaction

The initial authorization and the actual posted transaction may differ in amounts, depending on where you use your debit card. The following are a few examples of when the authorization and actual transaction may be different:

  • Pay-at-the-pump gas station authorizations will always be different than the actual amount that posts to your account. Gas stations don’t know how much your total fuel purchase will be until it is completed. The authorization amount will verify the validity of the card and the actual transaction that’s posted to your account will be for the amount of your fuel purchase. 
  • Restaurants often authorize the transaction for 20% more than your bill. They will then adjust your transaction to correctly reflect the tip amount. This will be the amount that posts to your account. 
  • Hotels usually authorize for amounts greater than the agreed-upon amount to cover any incidentals or extra charges. At the end of your stay, the actual charges will be processed and posted to your account.


Checks & Deposits

Any check you cash or deposit at a Citizens Bank branch will reflect your available balance within seconds. These items will then process and post to your account during the business day on which they were received. If you cash a check at another bank or write a check to a merchant, we will post it to your account on the business day on which we receive it. 


Enhanced Security

Real-time processing will also help further protect your account from potential fraud. With automatic updates to your account balance, you’ll be able to view all your account transactions right away. If you notice any suspicious activity on your account, report it immediately to Citizens Bank.


Contact Us

Please visit our Contact Us page, or feel free to call us at 866-666-2195 if you have any questions regarding real-time processing. We appreciate your business and look forward to providing continued service enhancements as we help you with all your financial needs.