Tips for cardholders to help detect and avoid fraud.
Print This PageBefore Using Your Purchase Charge Card
When you receive your purchase charge card:
- Read the cardholder agreement.
- Sign the back of your charge card.
- Follow the instructions to activate your charge card.
- Store your charge card in a secure location until you are ready to use it.
Before using your purchase charge card, make sure you:
- Plan Your Monthly Purchases
- Ensure Availability of Funds
- Conduct Market Research
- Select the Best Value
- Seek State Tax Exemption
- Talk to Merchants
After Using Your Purchase Charge Card
This section outlines procedures to follow up on your card purchase.
Inspection and Acceptance (receipt of supplies and services) - For products, the cardholder shall inspect the items to verify they are in good condition, with no visible damage or defects, and the items meet the requirements of the purchase (color, size, quantity, etc.). Cardholders should also verify that the purchase documentation (receipts, packing lists, shipping documents, etc.) matches what is provided by the merchant and that the all requirements of the purchase are fulfilled. For services, the cardholder shall verify that the work done is satisfactory. If upon inspection, all terms of the order as described above are fulfilled, the products (supplies) or services may be accepted. In the event the items or services purchased are defective, damaged, or otherwise do not comply with the cardholder’s order, the cardholder shall attempt to resolve these issues as soon as possible directly with the merchant.
Accountability for Items Purchased - The item must be properly accounted for in accordance with applicable Federal and agency policies and regulations.
Order Cancellation - If you need to cancel an order, immediately contact the merchant.
Returning a Purchase/ Obtaining Redress -You can return the purchase to the merchant for a variety of reasons within 60 days after the date on your invoice where the item appears as a charge. Work with the merchant on a resolution to refund or replace any defective items.
