Skip to main content
Redbird Card Office
Graphic of hands holding Redbird Cards

Redbird Card Office

The Redbird Card Office manages the Redbird Card and provides support and assistance for any issues or concerns related to the Redbird Card.

The Redbird Card Office creates all Illinois State University students, faculty/staff, extra-help, and other miscellaneous ID cards. The Redbird Card Office receives deposits for the Redbird Account, monitors the card system, and is responsible for the accounting of the Redbird Account.

All Illinois State University students, faculty/staff, retirees, and U-High students are eligible to open a Redbird Account. Your Redbird Card is the property of Illinois State University. The card is used for identification, state employee discounts, vending, printing, computer labs, and accessing university buildings and events.

The Redbird Card

The Redbird Card is the official university ID card for Illinois State University. This card serves as a form of identification for students, faculty, and staff, granting them access to various campus services and facilities. Additionally, the Redbird Card has various payment accounts used for on-campus dining, vending machines, and select off-campus merchants.

Explore how you can use your Redbird Card

Redbird Card Accounts

All cardholders can add funds to their Redbird Dollars for spending at various locations. Meal Plan and Flex Accounts are accessible to Meal Plan holders.

Understand the Types of Accounts

Your First Redbird Card

The first Redbird Card is free for all Illinois State University students, faculty, and staff. In order to obtain your first Redbird Card, you must present a government-issued photo ID such as a Driver's License, State ID, Passport, or Military ID. Please note that your photo will be taken during the process.

  • Student

    Students must be registered for at least one class in the current or upcoming semester.

  • Faculty and Staff

    Faculty/staff members must have a UID number, assigned to you when your paperwork is processed, and be a current employee to obtain the Redbird Card.

  • Retirees and Surviving Spouses

    Retirees and surviving spouses must visit the Redbird Card office and provide the required documentation.

    Discover the requirements for Retirees and Surviving Spouses Redbird Card

Adding Money to the Redbird Account

There are four different ways to add money to your Redbird Account – online, in person, via a cash-to-card machine, or by mail.

Learn how to add money to your redbird card

You can add money to a friend, co-worker or student worker's Redbird Account as a gift. Learn how to add money as a gift

How can I check the balance in my account?

You can view your balances through My Illinois State.

Read more in our FAQ

Protect Your Redbird Card

If your Redbird Card becomes damaged or is not functioning properly, you can replace your ID at the Redbird Card Office. Do not continue to use a damaged card. All Redbird Cards have an internal chip and magnetic stripe that can lose functionality, even though there is no visible physical damage to the card.

There are a few actions you can take to protect your Redbird Card from damage or loss of functionality.

✗ Do not store your Redbird Card next to magnetic earbud cases, these have been known to de-magnetize the magnetic stripe.
✗ Do not bend, fold, or expose your card to excessive heat, washing, or other damaging elements.
✗ Do not pass your card through any other system (i.e. ATMs).
✗ Do not leave your Redbird Card on or near a TV, stereo, telephone, microwave, or other electromagnetic equipment.
✗ Do not punch holes in your card. This may make your card unusable in any reader.

Lost Card and Security

If your card is lost or stolen, report it immediately via the My.IllinoisState portal.

Learn more about Redbird Card Security

Redbird Card Office Services

The Redbird Card office provides additional services to both staff and students.

  • Donor Registry Location

    Our office is an organ and tissue donor registry location, partnering with Gift of Hope since 2014. We have cards available at our front desk. There are drop boxes available in the office as well to collect any completed registry cards.

  • Copy Cards

    Guest Copy Cards may be purchased at Milner Library to be used in Milner's copiers, microfiche, and laser printers.

    Explore Guest Copy Cards

Crisis Assistance

Visit our Campus Resources page for State and National Helpline information.

Accessories

The Redbird Card Office offers accessories to complement your Redbird Card and enhance your campus experience. Visit our office in the Bone Student Center to see the available items as lanyards and ID holders.