PURCHASING CARD PROGRAM

The Office of the Budget administers the Commonwealth Purchasing Card Program, whereby designated employees can use a credit card issued in the name of the commonwealth to pay for goods and services.   All purchases made using one of these credit cards, commonly called "P-Cards," must comply with the provisions of the Commonwealth Procurement Code and Manual 215.3, The Procurement Handbook.

The commonwealth has approximately 3,900 purchasing cards in 43 agencies, which charge approximately $228 million annually.  The commonwealth receives a rebate from the credit card issuer, currently US Bank, based on the quantity of purchases made using P-Cards. Management Directive 310.23, Commonwealth Purchasing Card Program (PDF) establishes the policy, responsibilities, and procedures that govern the operation of the program.