Payment Method Decision Tree

Use the table to identify the correct payment method based on your situation. All payments are subject to applicable documentation requirements. If you are unsure which method applies, contact purchasing@vcu.edu before proceeding.

If your situation is…	Then pay via…
Recipient is a research participant	Candex — required unless an exception is granted by the Controller's Office
Not a research participant & payment is $250 or less	Candex, then Rybbon, then Bookstore, then RealSource — in order of preference
Not a research participant, payment over $250, department has SSN, and there are 3 or more payments for an IRB-approved research project	Office of Research and Innovation's Prepaid Card Program — complete the Participant Form
Not a research participant, payment over $250, department has SSN, and fewer than 3 payments or not IRB-approved	Request an exception via the Controller's Office Research Study Waiver. If granted, pay via Rybbon, then Bookstore, then RealSource
Not a research participant, payment over $250, department does not have SSN	Candex — recipient's email address is required