If you are UAL pilot (even on the CAL side), the charges have to be paid up front on a credit card, if you don't get first, you get the fun task of trying to get your money back. For me, it has taken months each and every time, and hours of my time because they keep changing the refund process. Prior to the merger, it was payroll deducted for us to, and only the charges you actually accrued.