Virtual Card (SUA) Payment Method

Audience: Department Administrators/Requisitioners

Last Updated: August 2025

Tufts University offers the J.P. Morgan Virtual Card Program, also known as Single-Use Accounts (SUA), to accelerate payments to suppliers. This electronic payment solution enables Tufts to pay participating vendors via a secure, virtual credit card instead of issuing paper checks.

Program Overview

What is SUA?

A Single-Use Account is a virtual credit card issued for a specific transaction. It is used only once and expires after payment is processed.

Who can participate?

This is a voluntary program available to vendors who accept credit card payments. Vendors may choose to enroll if they find it beneficial.

How does it work?

Complete your purchase with the vendor the same way you ordinarily would - participation in this program does not impact the user's buying experience. If the vendor is enrolled, payment will be issued via card payment rather than ACH or check.

Benefits

The SUA program offers advantages for both vendors and Tufts:

• Faster Payments - Speeds up payment cycles and improves Days Sales Outstanding (DSO).
• Enhanced Security - Reduces the risk of fraud for both suppliers and Tufts employees.
• Lower Administrative Costs - Minimizes manual check processing and distribution efforts.

Important Notes

• The SUA program does not affect the use of the Tufts Marketplace or the Procurement Card (P-Card) program.
• Participation is optional and based on vendor preference.