Are there guidelines for using my American Express Gift Card at restaurants and other “tip” oriented merchants?
Some Merchants (such as restaurants and salons) may obtain a pre-authorization on your Gift Card for an amount up to 20% more than the total bill to cover any gratuity that may be added. Although only the actual amount you authorize will ultimately be deducted from your Gift Card’s Available Balance, the entire pre-authorized amount will remain unavailable until the Merchant posts the final transaction (typically within 3 business days). To avoid a decline of your Gift Card or having a hold placed on your Gift Card funds, ask the Merchant to authorize only the specific total amount you’d like to pay for your purchase including gratuities. We do not guarantee that the merchant will fulfill this request.
