If the stay is prepaid, the hotel may also require a deposit to cover auxiliary charges for telephone access,

food and beverage service, valet services, etc. (Incidentals) At most properties, deposits for incidentals are refundable at check-out.

Some hotels do charge a nonrefundable deposit for telephone access. The ethics of nonrefundable service deposits are widely debated by hospitality executives. In any case, before taking a deposit for telephone access or other auxiliary services, the front desk representative should inform client whether or not the deposit is refundable.

After approving the method of payment, the front desk representative locates an available room with the proper rate, type, bedding, and location and makes a room assignment. The front desk representative fills in any missing information on the guest folio and gives the room key to the guest after assigning/confirming the room number.

If luggage assistance is required, the front desk representative should notify the bell captain or summon a bell attendant. The front desk representative still has one essential duty left-informing the telephone operator of the guests name and room number.