CASH-IN-ADVANCE

GOAL: Guests are required to pay cash in advance when no other form of credit is available at check in.

SCOPE:

To reduce the risk of uncollectible folio balances to include charges from all outlets.

To establish handling procedures for the Cash-In-Advance guest.

PROCEDURE:

1. When a guest cannot produce an approved credit card at check-in (in accordance with our SOP # FO-1, "Front Office Credit Policy") the "Cash-In-Advance" procedure will apply.

2. The guest must be advised that he/she will not be permitted to sign any charges to his/her room. Each property should develop a small card that explains the Cash-In-Advance policy to the guest. This card should be given to the guest with the key and check-in packet. The card will serve as an additional reminder to the guest, but does not relieve the desk clerk of the responsibility of explaining the policy to the guest.

3. If the guest objects to payment in advance, he/she should be immediately referred to the Front Office Manager.

4. The amount of cash collected in advance will be determined by the room rate plus tax times the number of anticipated nights plus a local approved deposit amount (usually $20 -$25 per day).

   Note: Each property should determine the amount they wish to secure for telephone, movies, Honor Bar, etc. charges. If cash deposits are not secured for these items, it is strongly recommended that these services not be made available to the guest.

5. The guest must have a valid driver’s license or passport. No I.D., no check-in.

6. The Front Office must produce an updated "CIA" list at least twice per shift. These must be delivered to every outlet in the hotel as they are produced. This includes, Food and Beverage Outlets, Gift Shop and any other retail outlets.

   
   

   It is the responsibility of each server and/or Cashier to check this CIA list prior to

   closing out a guest check or transaction.