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Rolling reserve calculator

See how much working capital a reserve really ties up — it is usually far more than one month’s deduction.

$
%

Typical for high-risk merchants: 5–15%.

days

Often 90–180 days.

%

Growth makes the frozen amount bigger.

Withheld every month
$10,000
You receive $90,000 of $100,000 processed.
Frozen at peak (after 180 days)
$60,000
This much of your money is held by the acquirer at any moment once the reserve is full.
First release
Day 181
After that, about $10,000 comes back each month while new reserve is withheld.

How a rolling reserve works

With a rolling reserve, the acquirer or PSP holds back a percentage of every payout for a fixed period — for example 10% for 180 days — to cover future chargebacks and refunds. Each held amount is released when its period ends, so after the first cycle money comes back every month while new money is withheld.

The real cost is the peak: with $100,000 a month, 10% and 180 days, about $60,000 sits frozen at any time. If volume grows, the frozen amount grows with it.

How to get better terms

  • Keep the chargeback ratio low and show processing history.
  • Ask for a cap on the reserve or a review after 3–6 months.
  • Compare offers: rate, hold period and cap matter more than the processing fee alone.

FAQ

Is a rolling reserve the same as a fixed reserve?
No. A fixed (up-front) reserve is a lump sum held for the whole relationship; a rolling reserve takes a percentage of each payout and releases it after the hold period.
What reserve is normal for high-risk merchants?
Commonly 5–15% held for 90–180 days, depending on vertical, history and chargeback levels.
Can the acquirer keep the reserve?
Only to cover chargebacks, refunds, fines or fees defined in your contract. Read the termination clause: reserves are often held longer after an account is closed.

Estimates for planning only, not financial or legal advice. Card-scheme thresholds as publicly described in November 2026; your acquirer’s contract and the schemes’ current rules prevail.

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