FAQs
How does the Red Card Meal Plan Work?
The Red Card is a closed debit card system. It is not tied to Visa or MasterCard so it can only be used at Red Card affiliated merchants. You will have the peace of mind knowing your student can not waste money.
Are there any savings with the Red Card Meal Plan?
Yes, students enjoy exclusive card holder discounts, frequent shopper rewards, and weekly and daily promotions. Students will be kept in touch with the latest savings via Facebook, Twitter, email, and our website.
Do meal plan balances carry over from semester to semester?
Yes. All meal plan balances carry over from semester to semester, and even year to year. Our program offers 100% value; you pay only for what you eat.
What if I want to modify the meal plan?
No problem. Our customer service agents will be happy to assist you. Money can be added to a Red Card at any time by telephone, online, or in person at our State Street office.
What if the Red Card gets lost?
Cancel your card online or call a customer service agent at (866) 569-9798 to deactivate it immediately. You can pick up a new card at our convenient office at 341 State Street or have it mailed to any address on record. Replacement cards cost $10. There have not been any theft issues since our inception.
What if I am not satisfied with the meal plan?
The Red Card Meal Plan offers a 30-day money back guarantee. If you are dissatisfied with our program for any reason, your full remaining balance will be refunded for free. After 30 days there is a $15 fee to refund your remaining balance.
Is the Red Card Meal Plan associated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison or the Wiscard?
No. It is a locally owned, private business independent of the university. If you decide to buy an on-campus meal plan, the Red Card Meal Plan can be a nice supplement in any dollar amount to allow your student to join friends at local restaurants, or buy groceries at Fresh Madison Market.
Can I use funds from my student's 529 plan to pay for the Red Card?
Yes, 529 plans consider food to be an educational expense and you can submit receipts from your student’s account. If your student pays with cash, and debit or credit cards, there is no way to prove the money purchased food.
How do I pick up my card?
You may stop in our office at 341 State Street during our business hours to pick up your card. School year hours are M-F 9 a.m. - Noon, and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Summer hours are 10 a.m. - Noon, and 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
I live in a Steve Brown Apartments property, does my Preferred Resident Card work as a Red Card?
Yes, students who live in a Steve Brown Apartments property can go into the "My Account" tab at the top of the page and simply go through the steps to "Register for Web Account Access." Load money and simply swipe your PR-Card at any location that accepts the Red Card. PR-Cards are issued through Steve Brown Apartments.
