Last updated on June 29, 2026 at 12:55 p.m.

The Illini Cash Program will be discontinued June 30. Students can spend remaining Illini Cash balances on their i-cards until that date.

Illini Cash was historically used for food and beverages, school apparel, library printing services and purchases at the Illini Union Hotel. However, a “lack of consistent use” by students, faculty and staff at the University led to the program’s discontinuation.

“The campus community now has easy access to various alternative payment options, including mobile payment apps, credit and debit cards, and other electronic payment methods widely accepted across campus,” an FAQ posted by Student Affairs said. “These convenient, contactless solutions have replaced the need for Illini Cash.”

Students can surrender their remaining Illini Cash balances to the University, which will be used to “support student programming,” according to Student Affairs. Their accounts will be closed upon doing so. Users can check their Illini Cash balances through the University Housing website or the Illinois app. 

Remaining Illini Cash balances can be spent at a discount on eligible purchases, according to Student Affairs. The discounts include 15% off at the Quad Shop and the Union Starbucks, 10% off at the Illini Union Bookstore and Tech Zone and 10% off any purchase at University Housing Dining locations. However, Student Affairs noted that users should “see individual locations for specific limitations.”

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