our refund policy
The RAD Card is a nonprofit program created to support small, locally owned businesses through the economic impacts of COVID-19. Managed by a 501(c)(3) organization, the RAD Card was originally launched as a way to quickly and meaningfully deploy CARES Act funds, American Rescue Plan funds, and private donor contributions to the businesses that are the heart of our communities.
We’re incredibly grateful for the generous donor and government support that made the dollar-for-dollar match possible in many cities. That matching feature was a powerful incentive to shop local—but it was never guaranteed and is no longer available now that federal pandemic relief programs have ended. Even without matching, the RAD Card continues to be a valuable tool for supporting your favorite local businesses.
Because RAD was designed as a relief program, and not a traditional gift card system, there are some limitations around refunding or transferring funds:
At this time, refunds are not available. Most RAD Card funds were loaded quite some time ago, and due to processing timelines and statutes of limitations imposed by credit card and payment processors, we’re no longer able to reverse those transactions.
If the RAD Card program eventually winds down or sunsets in a specific area, any personally loaded funds remaining in user accounts will be eligible for refund. However, government-provided matching funds will not be refunded, as those were issued as a one-time bonus.
Every request for a refund or transfer draws down from the operational resources that would otherwise go directly toward supporting downtown businesses. These costs add up quickly, and our priority is to preserve as much support as possible for the small businesses that make our communities vibrant and resilient.
We know this might be disappointing, and we truly appreciate your understanding. Your continued use of the RAD Card—whether spending down your remaining balance or encouraging others to shop local—helps keep the mission alive.
Thank you for being part of a program that was built to lift up local!