I'm only now getting back into frequent travel after Covid. That said perhaps Budget's practices on charging to credit cards have been consistent prior to Covid, but I don't remember the following.

In short Budget drop a charge the day of, prior to pickup of the car, for the total estimated amount plus a $200 security deposit. Basically I'm on the other side of the country and budget has already billed the rental for while week plus and additional $200 which they claim will be refunded though it means I will need to track if they indeed execute the refund.

How long has this been going on?

The rental is at BWI. Is this common practice at all Budget rental locations?