When you use your debit card to conduct a credit transaction (you do not enter your PIN), the merchant sends us the amount, usually your purchase total, for preauthorization. This amount is placed on hold and removed from your available balance immediately. The hold is released after approximately 72 hours or when the transaction clears, whichever comes first. The hold helps reflect the most current available balance on your account through UFCU’s Online Banking, Phone Banking, Account Alerts and at ATMs.