Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Alexis!
The Disney Dining Plan is a fantastic way of adding your dining costs into your vacation, making it a bit more "all-inclusive" when budgeting - it's also fun to have! One of my favorite features of the Disney Dining Plan is the flexibility. With several to choose from, there is one available to meet every family's needs. From quick-service only options, to deluxe dining, there will be something to fill your plate. Another tip to keep in mind, you must have the Disney Dining Plan added to your Magic Your Way Vacation Package at least three days prior to your arrival.
There are a few select restaurants that will require a pre-payment when you make your reservation, even if you end up using the Disney Dining Plan - Cinderella's Royal Table is one for example. Once you arrive and use your Dining Plan for locations requiring full pre-payment, the credit card you used at time of booking will be refunded.
All other reservations will require you to use a credit card simply to "hold" your reservation in the event you are a no-show (there is a $10 per guest fee for no-shows per the cancellation policy for dining), no actual charge will take place though - it's just to hold your reservation.
I would love to know where you are interested in dining, Alexis! I can help you determine if your reservation will require full pre-payment, or just a credit card to hold. I can also offer you some suggestions on my family's dining favorites, so I hope to hear back from you.
Happy Disney Dining Planning!
Faith