Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bear Bucks?

Bear Bucks is a convenient debit account right on your PolarExpress Card. Make a deposit into your Bear Bucks account and you can swipe your card all over campus and at participating merchants to pay for the things you use everyday.

Where is my Bear Bucks account? Do I need a separate card?

Bear Bucks is an account located on your PolarExpress card, which means no more digging into your spending money, late night stops at the ATM or charging up credit cards.

How do I sign up?

No need to sign up! Bear Bucks is already on your PolarExpress ID. Just add funds and begin experiencing the great benefits of Bear Bucks!

How do I add money to my Bear Bucks account?

Adding money is simple! You can purchase Bear Bucks at any of the Value Transfer Stations on campus or PolarExpress System POS devices (listed below), or at the PolarExpress Office. Or, you can send check or money orders to:

PolarExpress
PO Box 756090
Fairbanks, AK 99775

Once you have purchased Bear Bucks you can spend them on a variety of goods and services on campus including food, vending, copying, printing, textbooks, school supplies, computers, computer accessories, and now OFF CAMPUS! Remember, refunds will not be given out for value put on the card.

Value Transfer Stations (VTS) Locations

• Wood Center, base of stairs
• Library, next to reserve counter
• Arctic Health Research Building
• MBS Lobby
• TVC
• Bunnell Computer Lab

POS Locations

• Bookstore
• PolarExpress Office
• UA Technology Center
• Business Office
• All Dining Services Locations

Where can Bear Bucks be used off campus?

To see a full list of participating locations, click on the Participating Locations tab to the left of the page. We are always growing that list, so please let us know which of your favorite places we should add by emailing us at info@offcampussolutions.com.

Can Bear Bucks be used on campus too?

Yes, Bear Bucks can be used both on campus AND off campus.  Click here to check out our list of participating merchants.

What happens if I lose my PolarExpress Card?

Notify the PolarExpress office immediately if you lost your card. Call 474-7657 and choose the menu option to report a lost or stolen card. We will deactivate your card until you stop by our office to get your replacement. If you find your card then we can reinstate it by bringing it by our office at 116 Eielson Bldg.  

Your first PolarExpress card is free. To replace any lost, stolen, or mutilated card, a fee of $15 will be charged for the first card, $20 for the second, and $25 for the third and any additional replacements.

Never surrender your PolarExpress card to anyone as a deposit or collateral for any reason.