Overview
The Purchasing and Payment Method Matrix (Google Sheet) is a tool designed to help UC Berkeley staff select the best payment method for their purchases. It outlines what is and is not allowed for each different purchasing method, and provides links to campus resources that describe the process and policy that limit which payment methods can be used for different activity types.
Using the Purchasing and Payment Method Matrix
If you have a specific purchase type in mind, search for it on the main page of the sheet to find information about which purchasing methods are preferred, allowed, or restricted for that type of purchase. For some purchase types, a specific campus process is required to be followed; please refer to the links for more information on those item types. In the second column are links to UC policy providing the details of purchases of that type.
If a Purchase Type is Not Included in the Matrix
The Purchasing and Payment Method Matrix currently contains about ninety different categories of purchase types, which collectively represent the vast majority of transactions performed at UC Berkeley. That being said, the Matrix is specifically designed to be updated with new purchase types and new campus guidance on process; if you are looking for something that is not on the matrix, please email us at creditcard@berkeley.edu.
Changes made to the matrix will be reflected in the 'Changelog' tab.
Please contact the Card Program at creditcard@berkeley.edu for help on how to best make your purchase.
Additional Information on Different Payment Method Types
For a description of each payment method type listed on the matrix and links to additional resources, including information on how to apply for and receive a UC Berkeley procurement card, please refer to the Payment Methods page.