FAQs


Where do I pick up my MaineCard?

For the 2023-2024 Academic Year, ALL new and incoming students will be utilizing a Mobile MaineCard. Upon your ID photo submission online, new and incoming students will want to begin the process of enrolling in the Mobile MaineCard program. If your phone does not have near-field communication capabilities, please let the MaineCard Office know so we can find you a solution.


Is my MaineCard contactless?

Your Mobile MaineCard is contactless and will assist you with:

  • Entering residence halls
  • Purchasing food using Meal Plan Dollars or Black Bear Bucks
  • Reserving or checking out materials at Fogler Library

I have a new phone. What should I do?

If you have a new phone and have not changed your number, download the Duo Mobile and Transact E-Accounts app. Your Mobile MaineCard will be restored during your app setup. If you run into any issues, please contact the MaineCard Office.


I’ve lost my phone. What should I do?

Call Public Safety (UMPD) during business hours to report your phone as lost. After you replace your phone, download the Duo and Transact eAccounts app and log in. As long as your number hasn’t changed, your info should be restored.


I broke my phone. What should I do?

Utilize the Duo backup codes that you generated while enrolling in the Mobile MaineCard process. If you do not have them, you will need to call the IT Help Desk at 207-581-2506 for a bypass code. IT Help is available Monday-Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

If you need door lock assistance and your RA is not available, please call the UMaine Police Department any time as they are open 24/7.


If I lose my phone at night or on the weekend, how do I eat and get into my residence hall?

To get into your residence hall, you will need to call your roommate, Residence Life staff, or Public Safety (UMPD) to let you in. Please contact MaineCard right away on Monday morning (we open at 7:30 a.m.).

The on-campus dining halls will work with you if you are missing your MaineCard but be sure to replace your lost MaineCard right away.


How do I put money on my MaineCard?

Add funds from the Transact eAccounts icon link located on your MaineStreet portal, or download the Transact eAccounts app to deposit funds quickly and securely to your Black Bear Bucks account. You can utilize our online deposit service by visiting the Manage Your MaineCard page.

Family members and friends can also make a guest deposit for you as long as they know your MaineStreet ID and Last Name as it matches what is in the UMaine system records.

You can add funds at the MaineCard Office in the DTAV Community Building or you can use the Fogler Library Value Transfer Station (cash only, located near the Circulation & Reserve desk located on the first floor).


How much is a physical MaineCard replacement?

The replacement fee for those currently holding a physical MaineCard is $20. New, incoming students with a Mobile MaineCard will never have to pay a replacement fee as long as they solely use Mobile MaineCard. Learn more about enrolling in Mobile MaineCard here.


How do I change my meal plan?

Students may change their meal plans once during the first six weeks of each semester by logging into myHousing.

If you need modification to your meal plan for dietary reasons, contact Dietitian Krista Niezelski at UMaine Dining directly.

Those with commuter meal plans need to fill out an exception form to change their meal plan. Contact UMaine Dining for more information.


What’s the difference between Meal Plan Dollars and Black Bear Bucks, and where can I use them?

Meal Plan Dollars and Black Bear Bucks allow students, faculty, and staff to use their MaineCard for food and beverage purchases in all UMaine Dining locations. A detailed list of differences is available.

Black Bear Bucks may also be used at Maine Bound Adventure Centerthe University Bookstore, and certain off-campus merchants close to campus.

Are there any restrictions to my Black Bear Bucks purchases?

Yes. Businesses may not permit any MaineCard holder to purchase alcohol, tobacco, firearms, obscene materials, or store-value gift cards.


Do I need money for laundry?

Nope! Laundry is free for the 2023-2024 academic year for all on-campus residents.


What is Transact eAccounts?

Transact eAccounts is an app that you can download from the App Store or the Google Play store. It is how you can set up your Mobile MaineCard and also allows for depositing funds to your Black Bear Bucks account, marking cards as lost, and viewing account balances. We recommend that all students have this app.


What is Duo Mobile?

The Duo Mobile app is what all holders of the Mobile MaineCard are required to have installed and activated on their smartphones. It serves as a multi-factor authentication (MFA) app to help secure your UMS accounts.


I still need help. What should I do?

Feel free to visit the MaineCard Office in the DTAV Community Center, call us at 207-581-2273, or email us at um.mainecard@maine.edu.

Please note that we are open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. We observe all national and university holidays.