What is the CatCard?
The UC Merced CatCard is a multi-service identification card for students, faculty, staff, and affiliates of the University of California, Merced. It's fast, convenient, and secure, plus it has no monthly fee.
You can use it on campus to:
- Check resource materials out of Kolligian Library.
- Purchase meals at the Dining Center and Lantern Cafe.
- Access secured buildings.
- Photocopy and print using certain network printers.
- Purchase textbooks, school supplies, sundries, and collegiate paraphernalia at the Campus Store.
- Access the Gallo Recreation Center (i.e., your gym membership card).
- Access residence hall laundry rooms (students only).
- Identify and check your enrollment status (students only).
- Purchase snacks from vending machines.
Can I use my meal plan dollars to make other card purchases?
No, meal plan dollars can be used to purchase meals only. However, your flex dollars can be used for all retail purchases on campus.
What will happen if I use up all the balance on my meal plan?
You can add money to your flex account and continue to use your CatCard to purchase meals.
What happens to my remaining CatDollars at the end of the semester?
Your CatDollars will roll over semester after semester until you graduate or leave the university. You can get a refund upon disassociation.
What happens to my meal plan at the end of the semester?
At the end of the fall semester, the unused portion of your balance carries over for use during the spring semester. On the last day of the spring semester, any remaining meal swipes are forfeited.
Can anyone other than the account holder obtain an account statement or other information about your CatCard account?
No, it is our policy to only release information to the account holder (the student, employee, or affiliate who owns the CatCard). In addition, federal statutes prohibit us from releasing any account information to parents (regardless of where the funds came from) unless the student is under 18 years of age or has signed a release form granting access to grades and other restricted information.
Does the CatCard Office keep the digitized photo on file?
Yes, the office does keep the photos stored exclusively in the CatCard database.
What happens if my CatCard is fraudulently used?
The cardholder is solely responsible for safeguarding his/her CatCard. Should the card become lost/stolen/misplaced, either accidentally or by an act of theft, the university assumes no responsibility for illegitimate use of the card prior to the patron notifying the CatCard Office or the UC Merced Police Department. Upon notification, the card will be deactivated to prevent further use. Unauthorized access to a CatCard account is a criminal offense and will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Can I withdraw cash from my CatCard plan?
No, cash cannot be withdrawn from the CatCard account; however, refunds are available.
More Questions?
Call the CatCard Office at 209-500-6464.
