You completed an overseas payment.
The amount looked correct at checkout.
But when the charge appeared on your card statement, the total was different.
Higher or lower — either way, it didn’t match what you saw when paying.
This happens because exchange rates are applied at different processing stages.
Why Exchange Rate Timing Changes the Final Amount
- The payment network authorizes the charge first
- The bank posts the transaction later
- Exchange rates fluctuate between those two moments
- Settlement may occur 1–3 days after authorization
The rate used at settlement determines the posted charge.
Authorization vs Settlement — Key Difference
- Authorization shows an estimated converted amount
- Settlement uses the final network exchange rate
- The two values rarely match exactly
This gap becomes larger during volatile currency periods.
Other Factors That Affect the Posted Total
- Card network processing delays
- Issuer bank exchange margins
- Foreign transaction fees
- Weekend or holiday rate adjustments
How to Verify the Correct Charge
- Check the authorization date vs posting date
- Review the exchange rate applied by the network
- Confirm foreign transaction fee percentages
A changed amount does not mean you were overcharged.
It reflects exchange rate timing differences during settlement.