Universal Card Overview
The Universal Card Program at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) streamlines the procurement process, offering a convenient and flexible solution for acquiring low-value, low-risk goods and supplies. The Universal Card (U-Card) facilitates cost-effective purchasing across various business units, including State, UEC, PHIL, as well as for Travel and Fuel for campus fleet vehicles. Designed for transactions without the need for contracts or insurance certificates, the program simplifies purchasing while adhering to applicable restrictions.
Program Administration
The CSUSB Universal Card Team oversees and manages card operations while enforcing established policies and guidelines. Its responsibilities include coordinating card issuance, processing and approving card limit changes, reviewing and approving monthly reconciliations, and conducting audits to ensure compliance.
Obtaining a Universal Card
Request for new cards require the submission of the Credit Card Services Request via the Concur portal. Upon submission and completion of the prerequisites, the Universal Card Team will review the Concur request and order the card from the bank. Card delivery generally takes between 12 to 14 business days.
Prerequisites include:
- CSU Chancellor's Office Payment Card Program Training
- CSUSB Universal Card Training
Conflict of Interest Information
Approving Authorities must file a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) pursuant to the CSU's Conflict of Interest Policy due to their discretionary authority over vendor selection. Contact the Human Resources office for guidance on filing requirements.
If you have any questions regarding the Form 700 or accessing the training, please email or call Human Resources:
sde@csusb.edu or call 909-537-3125.
Reconciliation
For each month that your Universal Card is in use, you are required to submit a reconciliation (expense) report, which consolidates all purchase information including all receipts, tax accrual information, if applicable, and justification.
Universal Card Tutorials
Universal Card Training
Cardholders and approving officials are required to complete the CSU Chancellor’s Office Payment Card Policy training and Campus’ Universal Card Program training prior to requesting Universal Card. The CSU Chancellor’s Office Payment Card Policy training must be completed annually for cardholders to remain in the program.
CSUSB Universal Card Program Training
This training provides cardholders with a comprehensive overview of the Universal Card program, including how to apply for a card and key policies outlined in the handbook. Participants will learn about allowable, restricted, and prohibited purchases, along with a guided demonstration of the Concur application. The session also covers the reconciliation process in detail, ensuring cardholders can accurately reconcile transactions, maintain proper documentation, and remain compliant with university requirements.
CSU Chancellor's Office Payment Card Policy Training
The CSU Chancellor’s Office has implemented annual training requirement for all University cardholders as part of the CSU Payment Card Program. To comply with CSU Payment Card Program requirements and maintain active cardholder status, all CSUSB Universal Card cardholders must complete the CSU CO Payment Card Policy Training annually.
For questions regarding the Universal Card Program, please contact the Universal Card Team at UniversalCard@csusb.edu or call x75142. For questions regarding CSULearn support or the training, please contact Staff Development & Enrichment at sde@csusb.edu.
Contact
Non-Travel:
Procurement and Contracts Department
Phone: 909-537-5142
Email: UniversalCard@csusb.edu