Getting Your Marriott Deposit Back: A Comprehensive Guide
Ever checked out of a fantastic Marriott stay, only to find yourself wondering, "Where's my deposit?" You're not alone! It's a common question, and while the answer isn't always instant, understanding the process can save you a lot of worry. This lengthy guide will break down everything you need to know about getting your Marriott deposit back, step-by-step, with practical advice and answers to your most pressing questions.
Step 1: Let's Talk About Your Deposit! What Kind of Deposit Are We Even Discussing?
Before we dive into timelines and processes, it's crucial to understand what kind of "deposit" you're referring to. Marriott, like many hotel chains, typically deals with two main types of holds or charges:
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Pre-authorization Holds for Incidentals: This is the most common scenario. When you check in, Marriott often places a temporary hold on your credit or debit card for an estimated amount to cover potential "incidentals" – things like minibar purchases, room service, pay-per-view movies, or even minor damages. This isn't an actual charge, but rather a reserved amount that reduces your available credit or funds.
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Actual Deposits/Prepayments: Less common for standard hotel stays but sometimes applicable for specific rates (e.g., non-refundable bookings, extended stays, or specialized accommodations like Tribute Portfolio Homes), a hotel might actually charge a deposit or prepayment upfront. This is a real transaction that removes the funds from your account.
Engage with me right now: Think back to your check-in. Did the front desk agent mention a "hold" for incidentals, or did they explicitly state they were "charging" a deposit? Knowing this will significantly help you navigate the refund process!
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| How Long Does It Take To Get Marriott Deposit Back |
Step 2: Understanding the Standard Timeline for Deposit Release
The good news is that for most incidental holds, Marriott aims for a relatively quick release. However, the exact timing isn't solely in their hands.
Sub-heading: The Hotel's Role: Initiating the Release
Marriott typically processes the release of incidental holds within 5-7 business days after your departure. This is when the hotel sends a notification to your bank, confirming that there are no outstanding charges and the hold can be lifted.
Sub-heading: The Bank's Role: Processing the Release
This is often where the perceived "delay" comes in. Once Marriott initiates the release, it's up to your bank or credit card issuer to actually process that information and make the funds available in your account. This can take an additional:
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3-10 business days for credit cards: Credit card holds can sometimes linger longer, with some issuers taking up to 30 days to fully release a pre-authorization, though this is less common for typical hotel incidentals.
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Up to 10-14 business days for debit cards: Debit card holds can be particularly frustrating as the funds are physically unavailable. While they often clear faster than the upper end of credit card holds, they can still take a week or two.
Important Note: Weekends and public holidays do not count as "business days," so factor those into your calculations!
QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.
Step 3: Factors That Can Influence Your Deposit Refund Time
While the above timelines are general guidelines, several factors can affect how long it truly takes to get your Marriott deposit back.
Sub-heading: Method of Payment
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Credit Card: Generally the smoothest. The hold is on your available credit, so while it reduces your spending limit temporarily, it doesn't directly remove cash from your bank account.
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Debit Card: Can be more impactful. The funds are immediately unavailable, making any delay more noticeable.
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Cash Deposit: If you paid a cash deposit (less common for incidentals at Marriott but possible for some specialized bookings or properties), the refund would typically be processed directly by the hotel. They might offer cash back at checkout or arrange a bank transfer, which can have its own processing times.
Sub-heading: Hotel Specific Policies
While Marriott has overarching policies, individual hotels (especially franchised locations) may have slight variations in their exact procedures or the frequency with which they process these releases. Larger hotels might have a higher volume of transactions, potentially leading to slightly longer processing times.
Sub-heading: Incidental Charges During Your Stay
Did you raid the minibar? Order room service every night? Damage anything in the room (accidentally, of course!)? If there were any legitimate charges incurred during your stay, these would be deducted from your incidental hold or charged separately. If the charges exceed the hold amount, you'd be charged the difference. If there are charges, the reconciliation process can add a day or two to the refund timeline as the hotel finalizes your bill.
Sub-heading: Bank Processing Times and Policies
As mentioned, your bank plays a significant role. Some banks are simply faster at processing these types of releases than others. It's not uncommon for a hotel to release the hold on their end, but for your bank's system to take a few extra days to reflect the updated balance.
Sub-heading: Extended Stays
For longer stays, hotels might place larger incidental holds or conduct periodic reviews of your account, which could influence the refund process slightly.
Tip: Don’t just glance — focus.
Step 4: What to Do if Your Deposit is Taking Too Long
You've waited the typical 5-7 business days, plus a few extra for your bank, and still no sign of your deposit? Don't panic! Here's a step-by-step approach:
Sub-heading: Check Your Bank/Credit Card Statement Carefully
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Credit Card: Look for the removal of the pending authorization. It might not appear as a "refund" but rather the original pending charge simply disappearing, and your available credit increasing.
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Debit Card: Look for the release of the held funds. Again, it might not be a separate credit, but rather your account balance returning to normal.
Sub-heading: Contact the Marriott Hotel Directly (First Port of Call)
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Gather your information: Have your reservation number, check-in and check-out dates, and the name of the hotel readily available.
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Call the front desk: Explain politely that you are checking on the status of your incidental hold/deposit. They can often confirm if the release has been initiated on their end.
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Ask for a confirmation number: If they say they've released it, ask for a confirmation number or any reference number they might have for the transaction. This can be helpful if you need to escalate.
Sub-heading: Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Issuer
If the hotel confirms they've released the hold, but your funds are still unavailable, the issue likely lies with your bank.
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Explain the situation: Tell them a hotel (Marriott, specific location) placed a pre-authorization hold on your account, and the hotel has confirmed its release.
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Provide the hotel's confirmation: If you have a reference number from the hotel, provide it to your bank.
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Inquire about their processing times: Ask them specifically how long it takes for them to process these types of releases.
Sub-heading: Escalate if Necessary (Marriott Customer Service)
If you've spoken to both the hotel and your bank and are still facing issues, it's time to contact Marriott's corporate customer service.
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Be prepared with details: Have all the information from your previous conversations with the hotel and your bank.
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Be polite but firm: Explain the steps you've already taken and that the issue remains unresolved. They can often investigate further on their end.
Sub-heading: Consider Online Portals or Apps
Sometimes, you can check the status of your reservation and any associated charges or holds through your Marriott Bonvoy account online or via the Marriott Bonvoy app. While it might not show the exact refund status, it can confirm if your stay is closed out with no outstanding balance.
Step 5: Proactive Steps for Smoother Deposit Returns
QuickTip: Don’t just scroll — process what you see.
Prevention is always better than cure! Here are some tips to help ensure a smoother deposit return experience with Marriott:
Sub-heading: Use a Credit Card, Not a Debit Card
While debit cards directly use your funds, credit cards only place a hold on your available credit. This means that if there's a delay, your actual bank balance isn't impacted, giving you more liquidity.
Sub-heading: Inquire at Check-In
Don't be shy! When you check in, politely ask the front desk about their incidental hold policy. Inquire about the amount, what it covers, and the typical release timeframe. This sets clear expectations.
Sub-heading: Do a Room Check at Check-Out
Before you leave, quickly scan your room for any potential issues or damages. This way, if something is noted, you can address it immediately and potentially avoid any deductions from your deposit.
Sub-heading: Get a Zero Balance Folio
At check-out, always request a copy of your folio (receipt). Ensure it shows a zero balance for any incidental charges, indicating that the hotel won't be charging you further. This is your proof that you settled your bill.
Sub-heading: Keep Records
Hold onto your reservation confirmation, check-in details, and any communication with the hotel or Marriott customer service. This documentation is invaluable if you need to dispute a delayed refund.
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
Step 6: When a Deposit Might NOT Be Fully Refunded
It's important to be aware of situations where your deposit might not be fully returned:
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Damages to the Room: Any significant damage beyond normal wear and tear can result in deductions from your deposit for repairs or cleaning.
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Unpaid Incidental Charges: If you charged items to your room (minibar, room service, etc.) and they weren't paid for at checkout, these will be deducted.
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Smoking in a Non-Smoking Room: Many hotels, including Marriott properties, have strict no-smoking policies in rooms and will levy a substantial cleaning fee if violated.
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Violation of Hotel Policy: This could include excessive noise, unauthorized parties, or other breaches of the hotel's terms and conditions.
In such cases, the hotel should provide you with a detailed breakdown of the charges and the reason for the deduction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQ questions, starting with "How to," with quick answers:
How to check my Marriott deposit status?
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Check your bank/credit card statement for the removal of the pre-authorization hold. If it's been longer than the expected timeframe (5-7 business days plus bank processing), contact the hotel directly with your reservation details.
How to expedite a Marriott deposit refund?
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While you can't truly "expedite" the bank's processing, ensuring you settle all charges at checkout and getting a zero-balance folio can help prevent delays from the hotel's side. Using a credit card instead of a debit card can also make any delay less impactful.
How to contact Marriott about a missing deposit?
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First, call the specific Marriott hotel you stayed at. If they can't resolve it, then contact Marriott's corporate customer service with your reservation details and any information from your hotel call.
How to avoid Marriott incidental holds?
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Generally, you can't entirely avoid incidental holds as they are standard policy. However, you can use a credit card instead of a debit card, so your actual cash isn't tied up.
How to know if Marriott charges a deposit or a pre-authorization?
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Most standard Marriott stays involve a pre-authorization hold for incidentals, not an upfront charge. Specific rates or specialized properties (like homes/villas) might require an actual deposit/prepayment. Check your booking confirmation or ask at check-in.
How to dispute a Marriott deposit deduction?
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If you believe a deduction from your deposit is unfair, contact the hotel directly to request a detailed explanation and supporting documentation. If unsatisfied, escalate to Marriott customer service.
How to get a cash deposit back from Marriott?
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If you paid a cash deposit, the hotel should typically refund it in cash at checkout if no incidentals or damages occurred. If they plan a bank transfer, inquire about the timeline for that process.
How to understand Marriott's cancellation deposit policy?
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Marriott's cancellation policies vary by rate type. Non-refundable rates typically involve a full prepayment that may not be returned. Flexible rates often allow cancellation within a certain window (e.g., 24-72 hours before check-in) without penalty. Always check the specific "rate rules" when booking.
How to tell if a Marriott deposit is a hold or a charge on my statement?
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A "hold" or "pending" transaction indicates a pre-authorization, where funds are reserved but not yet taken. A "posted" or "completed" transaction means the funds have been charged from your account.
How to get a receipt for a Marriott deposit refund?
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For pre-authorization holds, you won't typically get a separate "refund receipt" as the hold simply disappears. Your bank statement reflecting the release is your proof. If an actual deposit was charged, the hotel should provide a refund receipt upon processing.
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