Does it cost money to make a reservation at Disney?

many character meals do require you to pay up front or secure with a credit card.

if you do not show or cancel, you are charged.

people's confusion is probably due to this being a recent change, i think only the last 1 or 2 years, but yes, certain popular restaurants will require a credit card hold and charge you for no show. BUT, you will know this when you make your reservation. they will inform you and ask for a credit card to hold the reservation.

some restaurants do want a credit card on file when you make a reservation in case you don't cancel at least 24 hours in advance so they can charge you $10 per person.

if i recall crystal palace IS one of those restaurants.

No, It doesn't cost money to make a meal reservation at the restaurants on Disney property.

If it's a hotel, it's probably like any other hotel. You have to hold the room with a credit card, but they don't actually charge it unless you show up, or fail to cancel with a prescribed timeframe. often 24 hours.

Nope, no extra cost.