A transaction descriptor is the merchant name or label shown in your virtual card transaction details. It may change between the authorization and capture stages of a transaction.

In your transaction details, look for the Descriptor line. This shows the merchant text associated with your transaction.

When you make a purchase, the transaction goes through two stages:

1. Authorization: The initial hold placed when the transaction is submitted. The descriptor at this stage reflects what the merchant's payment processor sends at the time of the hold.

2. Capture: The final posted charge. The descriptor may update when the merchant settles the transaction, sometimes showing a different or more specific merchant name.

Fluz displays both descriptors in your transaction details when available, so you can see exactly what was reported at each stage.

For example, a Venmo transaction might display a descriptor like Venmo*Bobby, identifying both the platform and the recipient.

Some merchants verify your card by placing a small temporary charge, often just a few cents or a dollar. These are known as AVS (Address Verification System) charges and are used to confirm that the card details are valid.

These charges appear in your transaction log and will typically fall off on their own. They are not actual purchases.

Some merchants also include a verification code in the descriptor itself, for example, a 4-digit code you may need to enter on the merchant's site to confirm you own the card. If you need to find this code, check both the Descriptor in your transaction details.

What is an authorization descriptor?

It's the merchant text shown when a transaction is first authorized. It identifies the merchant or payment processor at the hold stage, before the charge is finalized.

Why does the merchant name on my pending transaction look different?

The authorization descriptor may differ from the final capture descriptor. This is normal — some merchants use different labels at each stage. Once the transaction is captured, the final merchant name will appear.

Why did the merchant name change after the transaction posted?

The merchant sent an updated descriptor when the charge was captured. Fluz shows both the authorization and capture descriptors so you can track exactly what changed.

What is a small AVS or verification charge?

Some merchants place a small temporary charge (usually under $1) to verify your card. These appear in your transaction log and fall off automatically. They are not actual purchases.