PayPal Authorization in Progress Meaning

What Does PayPal Authorization in Progress Mean?

When you see “PayPal authorization in progress”, it means PayPal has placed a temporary hold on the payment amount while the transaction is being verified.

The money is not fully charged yet. It is only reserved to make sure the payment can be completed successfully.

Why Does PayPal Show Authorization in Progress?

PayPal uses authorization holds for several reasons, including:

• The seller has not captured the payment yet

• The transaction is still being verified

• The seller ships items later and captures payment after shipping

• A subscription or pre-order payment

• Security and fraud checks

• Hotel, ride, or service-based payments

This is a normal part of the payment process.

Is Money Deducted During Authorization?

Not permanently.

• The amount may appear temporarily deducted or pending

• Funds are only reserved, not transferred

• The seller does not receive the money yet

If the authorization is canceled, the funds return to your balance automatically.

How Long Does PayPal Authorization Stay in Progress?

Typical timelines include:

• 1 to 3 days for most online purchases

• Up to 7 days for some sellers

• Up to 29 days for certain card authorizations

If the seller does not complete the payment, the authorization expires automatically.

What Happens After Authorization?

There are two possible outcomes:

1. Payment Captured

   • The seller completes the transaction

   • Money is transferred successfully

2. Authorization Expired or Voided

   • Seller does not complete the charge

   • Funds are released back to you

No action is required from your side in most cases.

Can You Cancel an Authorization in Progress?

Usually, no.

• Only the seller can capture or cancel it

• You must wait for it to expire automatically

• You can contact the seller to cancel if needed

PayPal cannot manually cancel an active authorization.

Will Authorization in Progress Affect Your PayPal Account?

No.

• It does not harm your account

• It does not count as a failed payment

• It does not create limitations

It is a routine payment step.

What Should You Do If Authorization Is Stuck?

If it stays longer than expected:

1. Wait for the automatic expiration period

2. Contact the seller to confirm capture or cancellation

3. Check your bank or card statement

4. Contact PayPal support if it exceeds the standard timeframe

Difference Between Authorization and Completed Payment

• Authorization: Temporary hold on funds

• Completed: Money successfully transferred

Authorization simply confirms payment capability.

PayPal authorization in progress means your payment is being verified and the funds are temporarily reserved. It is normal and usually resolves on its own. If the seller completes the charge, the payment goes through. If not, the money returns automatically.

Read More :

PayPal bank transfer pending meaning

PayPal payment reversed by bank meaning

PayPal eCheck cleared meaning

PayPal account closed meaning

PayPal authorization expired meaning