Who is eligible to receive a card? Any full-time university employee will be eligible to receive a card. Cards should be issued to those employees that purchase within the scope of their job.

Who is responsible for payment of the La Carte P-Card charges? The charges are direct payments by LSUHSC. However, the employee is responsible for verifying that all charges are for valid business purchases, and that they have the authority to make such purchases. Unauthorized purchases may become the responsibility of that employee, and the university will handle reimbursement of the unauthorized charge by either a personal check or payroll deduction.

Who is liable if a card is lost or stolen? If a card is reported lost or stolen, immediately (which means as soon as the cardholder is aware that is has been lost or stolen) there is no liability. It is the cardholder's responsibility to call the proper authorities to report the card lost or stolen.

As a cardholder for the state, what are my liabilities? The program policy requires at a minimum that each employee, prior to receiving a card, must receive card holder training. Training will provide the employee with a copy of the agency's guidelines and give the employee an opportunity to ask questions. Also prior to receiving a card, each employee must sign a Cardholder's Agreement form. This form requires signature by the cardholder indicating that they take responsibility for the security of the card and that they will use the card for only authorized, business related purchases.

What purchases are currently allowed to be made by use of the credit card? The Office of State Purchasing, Division of Administration has authority on the overall use of the 'La Carte' Procurement Card Program. Purchases can currently be made at any participating merchant where the "single purchase amount" does not exceed $1,000. Remember, purchasing requirements shall not be artificially divided so as to constitute orders less than $1,000.

How can I control the types and amounts of purchases made by each employee assigned a card? Controls can vary for each individual cardholder. Depending on the individual's responsibilities you can set controls to allow spending at specific merchant types and you can control spending monthly by the dollar amount and/or number of transactions.

How can I get a card? Follow the How do I get a P-Card link.

What type of credit card is issued? The State of Louisiana has partnered with Bank of America. The credit card issued is a VISAź, which is accepted world-wide.

What about business owners who don't accept Visa? Ask them to call their bank to learn how acceptance of a credit card can improve their cash flow. You may also notify the La Carte Administrator and have Bank of America contact them. Remember, if Visaź is not acceptable, you would process your purchase as you do today.

What happens if I accidentally charge a personal cost? You should immediately inform your supervisor and reimburse LSUHSC. Remember: Any pattern of "accidents" may cause you to lose your privilege; a deliberate attempt to use the card for personal purchases is considered theft.

What action must I take if I change agencies or leave state service? The card must be turned in and cancelled with the La Carte Administrator. Each card's charges are tied to an accounting code that are tied to that agency's funds. If you are required to carry a card under the new agency, they must request a new card. Upon termination from the state, all cards must be cancelled.

Is the credit card issued in an agency's name or the employee's name? Credit cards are issued in the individual's name. The card is the responsibility of the employee.

Will I have to pass a credit check? No.

Where do I report a card lost or stolen? You must telephone Bank of America Customer Service at 1-888-449-2273 immediately. This number is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Lost cards reported by telephone are blocked immediately. Replacement cards should be issued within 24 hours. You must also notify the LA Carte program administrator.

Is sales tax exempt for card purchases? Yes, this is a direct payment by the state. The state has applied for one statewide tax-exempt number for credit card purchases. This tax-exempt number is printed on the face of the credit card. Each cardholder will be liable for advising the merchant of the exemption and ensuring that tax is not charged.

Can the credit card be used to obtain cash? No.

Are credit card purchases exempted from purchasing requirements? No. Credit card purchases are never to circumvent purchasing regulations. The Procurement Card Program is not intended to replace current Purchasing Policies, Rules and Regulations, Louisiana Statues, or Executive Orders.

Is it a risk to purchase items over the telephone and the Internet? No. Generally, 80 percent of all purchases are made over the telephone. When using the Internet, take caution to purchase from known vendors, or to check credentials. Most websites have an indicator if they are a secure website. Check to ensure the site you are using is secure.

What is the difference between the La Carte Purchasing Card and the Visa Corporate Travel Card? La Carte is a university credit card issued to authorized employees for the purpose of making small dollar purchases. La Carte is neither tied to your personal credit nor will it be affected. Charges made on La Carte are direct payments by the university. The Visa travel card is a credit card intended for university travel related expenses, such as airlines, hotels/motels, and auto rentals. The travel card is an individual liability credit card and is tied to your personal credit history.

What p-card documentation is required for FedEx charges?
Please click here to access more information on this subject