Configuring Preauth in NX POS
Setting a Default Preauth Amount is a critical step for using the Preauth feature effectively. This setting defines the "baseline" amount the system will attempt to hold on a customer's card when a tab is started with a zero or low balance.
This is configured at the Area level, allowing you to have different rules for the Nightclub (e.g., $50 minimum hold) versus the Patio (e.g., $10 minimum hold). ⚙️
Setting the Default Amount
Navigate to Portal > Configuration > Organization > Areas.
Select the specific Area you wish to configure (e.g., Bar or Nightclub).
Scroll to the Order Settings (or Payment Settings) section.
Locate the field labeled Default Preauth Amount.
Enter the dollar amount you wish to hold (e.g.,
25.00).Click Save.
How this Setting Applies
It is important to remember that this setting acts as a "floor" or minimum. The system logic always chooses the greater of the two values:
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Scenario A (New Tab): A guest walks up and asks to open a tab but hasn't ordered yet. The check total is $0.00.
Result: NX will preauth for the Default Preauth Amount (e.g., $25.00).
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Scenario B (Existing Tab): A guest has already ordered $100.00 worth of drinks and then hands you a card to "start a tab."
Result: NX will ignore the default setting and preauth for the Current Check Total ($100.00).
More Info: Using Credit Card Preauth in NX POS
Best Practices 💡
Cover the Average: Set your default amount to cover the cost of 1-2 standard rounds of drinks (typically $15 - $25). This ensures the card is valid and has funds available for a typical initial order.
Don't Go Too High: Setting this amount too high (e.g., $100) for a standard bar tab may cause declines on debit cards with lower daily limits, slowing down your speed of service.