skip to Main Content

Who is behind the Red Card Meal Plan?

The Red Card Meal Plan is owned by UW-Madison alumni, including former Badger/Packer football player Mark Tauscher. CLICK HERE to learn more about us.

How does the Red Card Meal Plan work?

CLICK HERE for a full explanation about how the Red Card Meal Plan works.

How much money should I put on my student's Red Card account?

You can start with any amount, but the plans below illustrate what you will need based on a 16-week semester and an average cost of $8.50 per meal. When the students scan the app or swipe their card, the exact amount of the purchase will come off their balance. There are no restrictions on frequency of card usage, meaning students can use their meal plan card as much or as little as needed.

Parents may add any dollar amount to their student’s Red Card Meal Plan as needed throughout the semester (keep in mind our Add Value Deals), and remaining account balances carry over from semester to semester and year to year.

Meal_Plan_Options-01-1

How do I download the Red Card Meal Plan app?

Search “Red Card Meal Plan” in the iPhone App Store or Google Play store.

I have downloaded the app but am having trouble logging in, what should I do?

First, make sure your username and password are correct. The app and account center login is case sensitive. If that doesn’t work, you can click “Forgot Password?” and follow the steps to reset your password on the Red Card app.
If you are still experiencing issues, please call our office at 608.256.2273 and we will be happy to assist you further. Phone support hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

Can I use Red Card during the summer?

Yes. Red Card can be used all year long. If you are not in Madison for the summer, your balance will carry over to the next semester with no fee.

Do 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.

How do I Refer-A-Friend?

When your friend signs up with an initial deposit of $200 or more, you are eligible to receive a $20 referral bonus added to your Red Card account.

Within one week of signing up, have your friend email info@redcardmealplan.com from the email address associated with their newly created account, referencing the Refer-a-Friend program and including your name. We will then add the $20 to your plan.

There are no limits on the number of friends you can refer!

Where can I use my Red Card?

The Red Card can be used at Fresh Madison Market & over 100 participating merchants. CLICK HERE to see the most updated list of Red Card accepted locations.

How do I use my Red Card at participating merchants?

At the time of payment at any of our participating merchants, scan the barcode on the Red Card app or scan the card saved in your Apple Wallet. The exact cost of the meal or your groceries is deducted from your meal plan balance. Login to your account at any time to view your balance and your complete transaction history.

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 for reimbursement or have your financial institution send a check to our office directly.

If your student pays with cash or debit/credit cards, there is no way to prove the money purchased food.

My 529 Plan requires a detailed receipt for reimbursement. How do I get that?

If your 529 Plans requires a detailed receipt, please call our office to give us the details at 608.256.2273 or email the details to info@redcardmealplan.com. We will then promptly email you your itemized receipt.

Are there any savings with the Red Card Meal Plan?

Yes, students enjoy exclusive card holder discounts, rewards, sign up coupons, weekly Restaurants of the Week and more. Students will be kept in touch with the latest savings via the Red Card app, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and email. CLICK HERE for more about savings associated with the Red Card Meal Plan.

What if I want to modify the meal plan?

No problem. We will be happy to assist you. Money can be added to a Red Card at any time by telephone or online. CLICK HERE to see all the ways that you can add value to your Red Card account.

How do I order delivery with my Red Card?

EatStreet is the Red Card’s official online ordering partner. You can order food online on EatStreet.com or the EatStreet app. You may also call the restaurant, place your order over the phone and give the cashier your 16-digit card number.

You can also order grocery delivery from Fresh Madison Market online and pay with Red Card. Delivery is free on orders of $40 or more. CLICK HERE to order groceries now.

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 with no charge. 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.

I'm a restaurant interested in accepting Red Card. How do I join?

Please send an email to chris@redcardmealplan.com to discuss details.

Still have questions? Call the Red Card office at 608.256.2273 (Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) or email info@redcardmealplan.com.

Back To Top