The short answer
This pending transaction is a standard pre-authorization hold from a Circle K gas pump. It verifies your card is active and has enough funds, and will drop off once the final purchase clears.
Why you see a high pending charge from Circle K
Because the pump doesn't know how much gas you need, Circle K requests an authorization hold (often between $100 and $150) before you start pumping. This proves to the merchant that your card can cover a full tank of gas.
Once you finish pumping, Circle K submits the actual dollar amount to your financial institution. The hold is then supposed to be released. However, depending on your bank's processing speed, this hold may remain pending for 1 to 7 business days.
How to handle authorization holds
Holds are harmless on credit cards, but on debit cards, they freeze your liquid funds and can trigger overdraft fees.
- Wait for the charge to post Do not attempt to dispute a pending charge. Once it posts, the amount will update to the actual cost of your fuel.
- Contact your bank if the hold sticks If the hold remains on your account longer than 7 business days, call your bank. Circle K cannot manually drop the hold; your bank controls it.
- Pay the cashier directly To circumvent holds entirely, go inside the Circle K and prepay at the register. The cashier will only authorize the exact dollar amount you request.
Independent reference — not affiliated with Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc.. Billing names and policies change; verify with the merchant or your bank before acting.
Verified sources
Every claim on this page is checked against official sources — open them to confirm before you call your bank.
- Circle K Contact https://www.circlek.com
- CFPB: Bank Holds https://www.consumerfinance.gov
Reviewed Aug 31, 2026 · high · About UnknownCharges