FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What is an East Tennessee State University ID BUC$ Card?
- Why should I use the debit card options on my ID?
- Where do I go to deposit?
- Who Can Participate and How?
- What is the difference between a Declining Balance or Debit Account and what I have with a credit card?
- How do I take care of my ID Card?
- What if I find my old card after having a new one made? Can I use it?
- What's the difference between an ID Card and a Name Badge?
What is an East Tennessee State University ID BUC$ Card?
The ETSU ID BUC$ Card features a declining balance program that works exactly like using a regular credit card, ONLY IN REVERSE! The difference is -- you deposit the money in the account prior to spending it. Upon receipt of your money, an account is set up especially for your use with your identification card. The card reader will record the transaction and instantly display the remaining balance of your account. To make a purchase at any of the participating locations, simply present your ID BUC$ Card to the cashier.
Why should I use the debit card options on my ID?
- Convenient
- Almost any transaction on campus can be taken care of with your ID card - food, books, vending, laundry, etc.
- Fast
- An average transaction takes just 5 seconds.
- Safe
- Every transaction is immediately recorded on the central ID System computer, insuring account security and accuracy. The convenience of not having to always have cash on hand is not only easier, it's safer! Needing cash on campus is a thing of the past! Lost or Stolen IDs can be immediately invalidated upon notification so that no one else can access the card accounts.
- Easy
- Deposits can be made on the account in person, by mail, or by phone with a credit card. The office has extended office hours for your convenience.
Where do I go to deposit?
- In-Person: ID Services Office - Middle level of the D.P. Culp University Center
- By Phone: (423) 439-8316
- By Mail: Campus ID System P.O. Box 70611 Johnson City, TN 37614
- Online: etsu.managemyid.com
Who Can Participate and How?
All students, faculty and staff enrolled or employed at East Tennessee State University are eligible to participate in the ID BUC$ Program. To activate the declining balance features of your card, simply complete, sign, and return the proper form with a cashier's check, money order, or personal check for the amount you wish to place in an account. Accounts may also be opened by direct deposit from financial aid, payroll deduction, or in person at the ID Card Services Office. You may open your account with as little as $10.00.
What is the difference between a Declining Balance or Debit Account and what I have with a credit card?
With a credit card, you charge the expenses and then must pay for them later. This requires careful advance planning and responsible management of the expenditures not to exceed your budget. With the ID BUC$ debit account, you place only the funds you can afford into the account and then spend them as you wish. There is no danger of overspending and getting in debt -- no surprises at the end of the month!
How do I take care of my ID Card?
Treat your card as you would cash or any other valuable possession. Protect the magnetic stripes, they can be erased by some devices such as inventory control pads (found at many cash registers) or other strong magnetic devices. Do not iron or otherwise expose the card to excessive heat. Do not punch holes in the card for use with key chains or necklaces. We also ask that you do not use any tape or stickers on the card; the tape can damage the card readers around campus.
What if I find my old card after having a new one made? Can I use it?
No. In order to insure the security of the meal and debit plans as well as the residence halls, only the most recent card issued is valid. Any previous cards are automatically invalidated on the system. If you have an old card, it should be cut up and thrown away.
What's the difference between an ID Card and a Name Badge?
Your ID card is the one with the ID number on it and the Library bar code on it. It is to be used for financial transactions, door access, and all other ID system services and privileges. It should be carried with you at all times and should NOT have holes punched in it. Selected students, staff, and faculty on campus also have Name Badges with their name, title, and department printed on the card. The card is also punched and has a 'hanger clip' on it that allows it to be worn on clothing. This is the only purpose for this card, it cannot be used to access any other ID System service or privilege.
