Purchasing Cards

The University has an alternative to the purchase order process, as a method of payment to suppliers for goods and services. The Purchasing Card is a type of credit card which is held in the name of the individual who will be using it, but the spend for which is included on a corporate account.

Permanent staff can apply for a University Purchasing Card. The card is used in a variety of circumstances as a cost-effective means of paying for goods or expense items.

Staff will need to complete Appendices 1, 2 and 3 from the links below:

1. Appendix 1: Purchase Card application form
2. Appendix 2: Authorisation of Product Areas
3. Appendix 3: Employee Agreement
4. Appendix 4: Change of Approver
5. Appendix 5: Amendment to credit limits

Staff requiring a purchase card will need to read the Purchase Card Procedures Manual, and the User Guide. It is mandatory for the applicant to complete the purchase card training on UoRLearn

All existing Finance and Procurement policies remain in force when using a Purchasing Card; all cardholders should keep themselves up to date with these current policies:

• Procurement Policy
• Finance Expenses & Hospitality Policy

Please also refer to directions on using funds from Research Council Grants and Staff Development Accounts.

If you experience a problem with your University Purchase Card, or have any questions you can contact the team on:

Email: purchasecards@reading.ac.uk

Tel: +44 (0)118 378 5855