That is why I prefer the CTE approach. Query 1 (in CTE): Verify all is correct and the current balance (and whether you have enough balance) Query 2: Perform

That is why I prefer the CTE approach. Query 1 (in CTE): Verify all is correct and the current balance (and whether you have enough balance) Query 2: Perform update and obtain new balance Then return a summary showing the starting balance and end balance for the transaction (proof of what, if anything, happened).