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Stored Card Value Program

Program Purpose

The Stored Value Card is a type of bankcard with a specific dollar value programmed into it that can be used for research subject reimbursements and payments, and some other special purposes (on an exception basis.) It is intended for single-purpose, small-dollar payments and should not be used for general purchasing or reimbursements.

Payments for services and supplies are not allowed and should be made via Accounts Payable Services.

The benefits of a stored value card include:

  • Can be used at an ATM
  • Safer than using petty cash
  • Replaceable (if lost or stolen)

Please contact us at storedvaluecard@northwestern.edu with any questions.

Program Updates

Updated as of January 24, 2025

Northwestern has transitioned away from PNC Bank’s stored value card program. PNC stored value cards will remain open until the balance has been depleted or the expiration date. If funds remain on the card at expiration, the remaining balance will be escheated to the State of Delaware with the 16-digit card number as identification. Please see several new gift card and stored value card solutions outlined below. It's important to note that any plastic card option will have an additional cost paid either by the department or by the participant.

Research Participant Tango Gift Card Program

Review the catalog within iBuyNU . Upon completion of research milestones, payments to participants can be made through the Tango punchout within iBuyNU. This point-in-time payment with workflow approval allows for direct charges to research projects.

The two main card options are:

  • Participant Selectable – participant chooses card to receive, virtual or plastic. The option to choose has a $1.00 fee/card paid by the department.

  • Department Selectable – Northwestern researcher choose which virtual card participants receive.

A Tango gift card process guide (pdf format) and participant process guide (pdf format) are available at Procurements and Payments.

Hyperwallet

Virtual and plastic cards are available as a payment option via the current stored value card request form.

To Apply

Complete the Stored Value Card Request Form and choose plastic under card type and email to HyperwalletVirtualCard@northwestern.edu.