You completed an international payment.
The amount looked correct at checkout.
You approved the charge.
The transaction went through.
But days later, the posted charge looked different.
Higher.
Or occasionally lower.
This happens because the exchange rate changed between authorization and settlement.
Why the Exchange Rate Changes After Payment
- The initial charge uses an estimated authorization rate
- Final settlement uses the card network’s clearing rate
- Currency markets fluctuate daily
- Settlement may occur 1–5 days after purchase
The amount you see at checkout is not always the final billed amount.
Authorization vs Settlement — Key Difference
- Authorization: Temporary approval hold
- Settlement: Final posted charge
- Exchange rate applied at settlement date
- Market movement affects final cost
This timing gap creates the difference.
When the Difference Is Most Noticeable
- Large purchases
- Volatile currency periods
- Weekend or holiday settlements
- Delayed merchant processing
How to Estimate the Final Charge
- Check your card network exchange rate
- Allow 1–3% buffer for fluctuation
- Include foreign transaction fees
- Monitor settlement date rates
A different final amount does not mean an error occurred.
It reflects real-time currency conversion at settlement.