Tuesday September 18, 2001

Students say they like using one card for both CatCard and banking services

UA students can now use their CatCards as ATM/debit cards by opening a checking account with Union Bank. Students must also obtain a personal identification number to use the card.

"The primary advantage of using the CatCard as an ATM/debit card is convenience. You're using one card for everything you need around campus - it's an ATM/debit card, a meal plan card, a library card and a Rec Center card," said Suellyn Hull, assistant controller of CatCard services.

Students who already use their CatCards as ATM/debit cards said the service is convenient because it consolidates several different uses in a single card.

"Union Bank is really just the same as every other bank, but it saves a few cards to use your CatCard for an ATM/debit card," said biology freshman Cindy Nock.

Any merchant who accepts debit cards (which require entrance of the PIN number) will accept the CatCard, either on or off campus.

"I use the debit card for buying books and getting all the supplies I need and I use my CatCard for all the normal stuff, so it's just easier because it's from one source," Nock said.

The PIN for the card differs from the PIN given to students by the UA. It is a number that is personally chosen when the card is activated.

Hull said students who want to put money into a Union Bank checking account can use either the bank branch in the Student Union, wire transfer or direct deposit.

Anyone who wants to use the new banking service can exchange their CatCard in the CatCard office for a new card with banking logos. During the month of September, the exchange is free. Beginning in October, there will be a $5 charge for the exchange.

The Union Bank office and two ATMs are located in the Student Union Memorial Center. There are also eight additional Union Bank locations around Tucson.

After CatCards are exchanged for cards with banking logos, the CatCard office doesn't have access to any personal banking information.

"Once someone decides to use their CatCard as an ATM/debit card, they take it directly to the bank and we don't know anything more about it. It's a privacy issue."