What is the difference between an excess and a security deposit with car hire?
What will I need to pay when I arrive at the car hire desk?
We talk about car hire every day here at Clarify Car Hire but we appreciate that sometimes the terminology can be very confusing. One question that customers often ask is why the security deposit is different to the excess amount.
The Excess – The maximum amount you will be charged should the car be damaged or stolen (provided you have driven within the terms and conditions of your rental)
The Security Deposit – The amount that will be pre-authorised on your card at the start of your rental.
The Fuel Deposit – An amount taken to cover fuel costs should you not return the car with the correct level.
Why is the security deposit lower than the excess?
If a company has a lower security deposit this is often because they are a premium car hire company and they are able to take the risk that their vehicle is likely to return in good condition. It also means the customer does not have to block the larger amount on their credit card. Even though the security deposit is lower, you are still responsible for the excess amount.
Why is the security deposit higher than the excess?
Some companies take a deposit for fuel in addition to the excess amount and just add this to the security deposit. If your deposit is higher, it is probably because it is the excess plus a fuel deposit. Some companies, for example in Portugal, may have added a deposit for toll charges
Can I leave a car hire security deposit on a debit card?
There are car hire companies that will accept debit cards. Clarify Car Hire has a payment filter which enables you to search for a car rental where you can use a debit card. Do not presume that your car hire company will – if you don’t check, you could be turned away at the desk. If a deposit is taken on a debit card, the money is usually debited from your account and can take up to 30 days to go back on your card. Any card used must be in the name of the lead driver. Check the accepted cards section of the hire before booking.
Is the security deposit only used if I damage the car?
No. Funds can be deducted from the security deposit for a number of reasons including any excess you are liable for if the car has been damaged or stolen. You may incur parking or speeding fines, or have toll fees to pay. These will all be taken from the security deposit before the balance is returned to you at the end of your hire.
What will I need to pay at the desk on arrival when I book with Clarify Car Hire?
You will need to have enough funds available to cover any security deposit, fuel deposit and the balance of your hire.
Can I hire a car with no excess?
We have built our car hire booking system to make it easier for customers to find the car rental they want. We have filters which you can use to search for car hire with lower or no excess or security deposit. You can not remove a fuel deposit.
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