Transaction Types

Authorization

Authorization is preferred transaction type for e-commerce. Merchant must capture these transactions within 28 days (or this capture period depends on the bank), in order to transfer the money from buyer's account to his own. This transaction can also be voided if a buyer cancels the order. Refund can be done after original authorization is captured.

Purchase

Purchase doesn't need to be approved; funds are transferred in next settlement between issuer and acquirer banks, usually within one business day. These transactions can be refunded within 180 days.

Capture

Approved authorization must be captured for the funds to be transferred form buyer's card to merchant account. This action can be done through merchant account interface or programmatically through an API call. A lesser amount than an original authorization amount can be captured as well, ie. a merchant can make partial delivery of goods and/or services. Capture must be done within 28 days or it will be automatically voided.

Refund

Approved purchases and captures can be refunded within 180 days. This action can be done through merchant account interface or programmatically through an API call. This is required if a merchant cancels the order after transaction is settled, or a buyer is not satisfied with delivered goods and/or services. Refunds can be done with a lesser amount than an original authorization amount.

Void

Approved authorization must be voided within 28 days if merchant cancels the order. This action can be done through merchant account interface or programmatically through an API call.