Frequently Asked Questions

WHO CAN OBTAIN A VISA PURCHASING CARD?

An employee who is authorized by the department account director or Vice President.

WHAT IS A SMALL DOLLAR PURCHASE?

In general small-dollar purchases are typically for $500 or less.

HOW DO I BUY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES NOT LISTED AS ACCEPTABLE PURCHASING CARD PURCHASES?

Traditional purchasing methods will continue to exist for all products not appropriate for the card. In these situations, complete a purchase requisition (with signatures) and forward to the Purchasing Department.

WHO HANDLES CHANGES AND DELETIONS?

The Program Administrator in conjunction with the Account Director.

WHAT IF AN EMPLOYEE IS TRANSFERRED TO ANOTHER COST CENTER OR LOCATION?

The employee's new manager must determine if the employee should continue to be a cardholder, and then contact the Program Administrator to complete a NEW Cardholder Implementation Form. The previous card must be returned to the Program Administrator and a new card will be issued.

WHY NOT SIMPLY USE A PURCHASE ORDER OR CHECK REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT?

The use of these cards will increase flexibility, simplify the process and reduce total purchase cost. Benefits include, orders are placed faster, received faster, eliminates using personal funds for reimbursement, reduces check request, requisitions, purchase orders, and invoices.

HOW DO CARDHOLDERS USE THE CARD?

The card functions just like a regular charge card with certain limits on transactions. When the card is used, the vendor requests authorization through the Visa network. You must furnish the vendor with the college's tax exempt number at the time of purchase. If the purchase is within the cardholder's limits, the cardholder will receive the goods or services. The vendor will send a detailed receipt (or packing list) of items that have been purchased with the material.

CAN CARDHOLDERS USE THE CARD OVER THE TELEPHONE?

Yes, just as they might use their personal Visa cards. The supplier will ask for the card number and expiration date. The cardholder must make sure to record the transaction on a log sheet. This will help to reconcile the monthly statement.

WHAT SHOULD CARDHOLDERS DO WITH RECEIPTS?

SAVE THEM! You will need these receipts to reconcile the monthly Visa statement via the Internet Service Center.

ARE THE DEPARTMENTS OR CARDHOLDERS CHARGED A FEE?

No. There are no annual fees for using the card.

CAN THE PURCHASING CARD BE USED FOR PERSONAL PURCHASES IF THE DEPARTMENT IS REIMBURSED FOR THE CHARGES?

No. Personal purchase are prohibited as stated in the Employee Purchasing Card Usage Agreement.

CAN THE CARD BE USED FOR "CASH" ADVANCES OR AT A MAC MACHINE?

Not generally. Messiah College's procedures restrict "CASH" advances with the card. There are occasions when this is permitted. i.e. international travel and cash is required. A pin number will be issued.

CAN THE CARD BE USED FOR PLACING CREDIT CARD TELEPHONE CALLS?

No. Messiah College has an ATX Corporate Calling Card program for employees needing to place calls on behalf of the college.

CAN THE CARD BE USED FOR BUYING GASOLINE IN A VEHICLE?

NO, if the vehicle is a college fleet vehicle or a personal vehicle. YES, if the vehicle is a rental vehicle.