Support Guide

Security Deposits Explained

Understand how deposits work, when they're charged, and how to get them back quickly.

Protection for Everyone

Deposits protect hosts from damage and guests from unfair charges.

3-7 Day Release

After a successful trip, deposits are released within 3-7 business days.

50% Reduction Available

Verified personal insurance can reduce your deposit by half.

How Security Deposits Work

1

Booking Confirmed

Deposit is authorized (held) on your card 24-48 hours before pickup

2

During Trip

Hold remains in place while you enjoy your rental

3

Trip Ends

Host inspects vehicle and confirms return condition

4

Release

If no issues, hold is released within 3-7 business days

Deposit Amounts by Vehicle Type

TierVehicle TypesTypical DepositNotes
StandardEconomy, Sedan, SUV$250 - $500Most everyday vehicles
PremiumLuxury, Sports, Convertible$500 - $1,000Higher-value vehicles
ExoticExotic, Supercar$2,500 - $10,000High-performance exotics

Exact deposit amounts are set by individual hosts and displayed before booking confirmation.

How to Reduce Your Deposit by 50%

If you have personal auto insurance that covers rental vehicles, you can qualify for a 50% deposit reduction. Here's how:

  1. During booking, select "I have my own insurance"
  2. Upload a photo of your declarations page or insurance card
  3. Our team verifies coverage within 24 hours
  4. Approved coverage automatically reduces your deposit

Qualifying insurance must include: Collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and rental car coverage. Minimum liability limits apply.

What Can Be Deducted From Your Deposit?

Vehicle Damage

Dents, scratches, interior damage beyond normal wear

Excessive Cleaning

Smoke smell, stains, pet hair, excessive dirt

Late Returns

Additional daily rate charges for unapproved late returns

Toll Violations

Unpaid tolls plus processing fees

Traffic Tickets

Parking tickets, red light violations, speeding tickets

Mileage Overages

Extra miles beyond your booked allocation

Fuel Replacement

Refueling to agreed level if not returned full

Lost Items

Keys, garage remotes, or charging cables

Frequently Asked Questions

When is my security deposit charged?
Your security deposit is authorized (not charged) when your booking is confirmed, typically 24-48 hours before pickup. This creates a temporary hold on your card. If no damage or extra charges occur, the hold is released after the trip ends.
How do I get my deposit back?
If the vehicle is returned in the same condition, your deposit hold is automatically released within 3-7 business days after trip completion. Some banks may show the release immediately, while others take longer to process.
Can I reduce my deposit amount?
Yes! Guests with verified personal auto insurance can receive a 50% deposit reduction. Simply upload proof of your insurance coverage during the booking process, and we'll verify it qualifies.
What can the deposit be used for?
The deposit covers potential damage to the vehicle, excessive cleaning fees, late returns, toll violations, traffic tickets, mileage overages, and fuel replacement if not returned at the agreed level.
Why is a hold different from a charge?
An authorization hold temporarily reserves funds but doesn't transfer money. It appears as "pending" on your statement. Unlike a charge, holds automatically expire and release back to your available balance.
What if my card doesn't have enough for the deposit?
Your booking may be cancelled if the authorization fails. We recommend ensuring sufficient available credit before your trip. If you have concerns, contact support before booking.

Still have questions?

Our support team is happy to help with any deposit-related concerns.