Definition & Meaning
The Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form is a document used by guests at Howard Johnson Inns who are not present at the time of payment. Its purpose is to authorize charges to the guest's credit card and outline the liability terms for any expenses incurred during their stay. This can include room charges, taxes, additional services, and penalties for policy violations, such as smoking in non-smoking rooms. By completing this form, the cardholder consents to allow the establishment to process specific charges to their credit card.
How to Use the Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form
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Gather Information: Ensure you have the necessary details from the guest and cardholder, including their names, contact information, and payment details. Copies of the cardholder’s ID and credit card are typically requested to verify identity and prevent fraudulent transactions.
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Fill Out the Form: Enter all required information on the form. This includes specifying the dates of stay, room number, and any additional authorized charges.
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Review and Sign: Carefully review all entries for accuracy. The cardholder must provide their signature to authorize the charges outlined on the form.
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Submit the Form: Submit the completed and signed document to the Howard Johnson location handling the reservation. This can usually be done by email, fax, or in person.
Steps to Complete the Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form
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Identify Required Fields: Start by filling in the hotel’s address and contact details, followed by the cardholder’s personal information.
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Input Payment Information: Include the credit card type, number, expiration date, and CVV code. This establishes the source of payment for incurred charges.
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Authorization Scope: Specify what charges are pre-authorized. This typically includes room rates and could extend to other expenses like room service or mini-bar consumption.
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Acknowledgments and Consent: Ensure the cardholder acknowledges understanding the terms, especially policies regarding cancellations or additional fees.
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Sign and Date: The cardholder must sign and date the form, confirming their consent and the accuracy of the information provided.
Important Terms Related to Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form
- Cardholder: The individual whose credit card is being charged.
- Additional Charges: Fees beyond the initial reservation, such as incidentals.
- Authorization: Consent given by the cardholder to process charges.
- Liability: The cardholder’s responsibility for charges incurred under this authorization.
Legal Use of the Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form
The use of this authorization form is set within legal guidelines to protect both the guest and the hotel. It ensures that both parties are aware of the financial and privacy implications, providing proof that the cardholder explicitly authorizes the hotel to charge the specified amounts to their credit card. It is essential for mitigating disputes over unauthorized charges.
Key Elements of the Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form
- Cardholder Information Section: Collects name, billing address, and contact details.
- Credit Card Details: Requires card number, expiration date, and CVV.
- Terms and Conditions: Outlines the cardholder's consent to abide by hotel policies, including any fees for damages or policy violations.
- Signature Line: Verification of the cardholder’s consent and the binding nature of the information and permissions granted.
Who Typically Uses the Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form
This form is predominantly used by guests who reserve rooms at Howard Johnson locations but who will not be physically present to provide their credit card for charges. This can include business travelers booking on behalf of companies, parents booking rooms for children, or guests arranging for services or amenities to be charged to their account prior to arrival.
Form Submission Methods (Online / Mail / In-Person)
The Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form can typically be submitted through various methods:
- Email: Scan and email a copy of the signed form to the hotel.
- Fax: Some locations may accept faxed submissions, offering a quick and secure option for sending copies of the form.
- In-Person: Direct submission at the hotel reception is possible for those able to visit the location prior to or during their stay.
Required Documents
When submitting the Howard Johnson Credit Card Authorization Form, consider including the following documentation:
- Copy of Credit Card: Front and back copies help verify the identity of the cardholder and the card details.
- Government-issued ID: A driver’s license or passport copy provides additional validation of the cardholder’s identity.
Providing these documents ensures compliance with security protocols and enhances transactional trust between the guest and the establishment.
