A rolling reserve holds a portion of eligible transactions for a specified period under the provider's terms. Amounts are normally released according to the reserve structure, subject to the contract and any continuing restrictions.
Read three variables together Identify the percentage retained, the holding period and what sales or balances the reserve applies to. Also check whether there is a cap, a minimum balance or another reserve operating alongside it.
Use a cash flow example In a purely illustrative arrangement, a provider might retain 10 percent of relevant sales for 90 days. On €10,000 of such sales, €1,000 would initially be reserved. This is not a quote or a typical rate: actual terms are individually determined.
As later periods arrive, earlier amounts may become eligible for release while new amounts are retained. Growth can therefore increase the amount tied up even when releases have begun.
Ask about changes and release Check how disputes, refunds, business changes or account termination affect the reserve. Obtain the terms in writing. Do not assume that a release date is unconditional or that closing the account accelerates access.
Include it in the operating budget Forecast supplier payments, delivery costs and refunds using available cash rather than gross sales. A profitable merchant can still face a shortage if it spends money that remains reserved.
Review reserve reports and reconcile movements separately from processing fees. If an amount appears overdue, ask the provider for the specific restriction or release calculation instead of treating every balance difference as a missing payout.
Sources and scope
General information, not advice for your individual legal or tax position. Confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or provider.