In effort to provide students with more flexibility when receiving refunds, Southeastern has partnered with Higher One to offer students a better method of receiving payments from the university through the “My Lion Card” system. Cards were mailed to all students who are currently enrolled at the mailing address listed on LeoNet on Friday, Sept. 29 and can be used immediately after activation is complete. “It will provide additional flexibility to students by giving them the ability to choose how they want to receive their refund,” said Nettie Burchfield, director of the controller’s office. “This is an additional option for a bank account with a debit card. For those students receiving paper checks, this option will reduce the time it takes to receive their funds. Also, this is good for our international students or those that cannot currently obtain a bank account.” Although the card will be accessible to all students, those who receive refunds by direct deposit to their personal bank account can continue, but will have to select that option under the “My Lion Card” system. The name of the bank, routing number and account number will be needed for that option, in addition to a signed confirmation page, which should be faxed to an 800 number. “The card is a necessary part of the new refund system,” said Burchfield. “As soon as the student activates the account at mylioncard.com and puts money in their account, he or she can begin using the card.” In addition to payments from the university, cardholders will have the option of depositing outside checks into the account through the Higher One mobile app. Other resources associated include free online bill pay, account alerts and no minimum balance. While the service come with a no-cost agreement between Higher One and the university, it will decrease the work load around refunds for the controller’s office, and save money on postage, micro ink, check stock and the personnel used to process the refunds. “With a typical refund process, there are approximately four to five staff that touch the checks or are involved in the refund process before the checks reach the Post Office,” said Burchfield. “The One Account is free to all active students. It can certainly be used without fees; however, with any bank account, there may be fees for certain types of services. To prevent fees when using the My Lion Card for purchases, the card should be used as a Master Card by selecting the “credit” option at the register and signing the receipt. Use of Higher One ATMs on campus and campuses across the country can also be done free of charge.” Service charges may apply upon graduation, however there are options to continue using the service. Students may cancel their account at anytime following graduation. For more information about the card and services offered visit www.mylioncard.com. Activation may also be complete through the website.