Just checked out of a Marriott property. Before departing I looked at my folio (emailed to me overnight) and notice a line for “Charitable Contribution” (and $1 charge).

I did not authorize this nor is there any explanation of what this “Charitable Contribution” is for. Yes it’s “only” a dollar, but it was not something I approved (it’s the principle!) PLUS my work expense report folks are going to ask questions about why I’m charging “charitable contributions” to my corporate credit card, no matter how small the amount.

In the lobby I speak with a front desk agent. He informs me that “it’s a thing they stated doing recently” and it’s “for kids or something” and — most importantly to me — “they automatically charge every room.” This fee (because let’s be real - an “automatic charitable contribution” is a fee) was not disclosed when booking nor checking in, nor was I asked if I wanted to opt-in (or out).

I believe deeply in philanthropy, but I have big … concerns … about a corporation putting non-disclosed “charitable contributions” charges on every guest’s folio without their prior knowledge. (Also troubling but more of an aside: front desk agent could not elaborate or explain what where this charitable contribution actually went.)

How many people don’t pay close attention and miss the $1 charge - and then don’t bother to contest it later?

Does anyone else find this… feels scammy… too?

This hotel is in NY — I’m guessing it also violates consumer protection laws here to do something like this?

If the hotel offered guests the opportunity to opt-in, I still wouldn’t (I like to make my own contributions directly, my work wouldn’t approve a folio with “charitable contribution” on it, and I find corporate giving practices that are really tax write-offs of passed through consumer contributions distasteful) BUT wouldn’t have an issue with it. Whatever floats your informed boat.

But automatically charging every room without disclosing if anywhere? Eek.

anyone ever experience this elsewhere before?