University Policies and Procedures Manual (previously Business Policies and Procedures Manual)

UPPM 30.98

For more information contact:
   Bursar’s Office
   509-335-9711 / bursar.office@wsu.edu

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1.0   Overview and Purpose

Washington State University is subject to federal regulations that limit which charges may be automatically paid using financial aid. When the Bursar’s Office receives financial aid funds for a student, the funds are applied to current-term charges, such as allowable outstanding tuition, mandatory fees, and University-contracted housing. Any remaining (excess) financial aid funds are refunded to the student.

This policy ensures that any excess financial aid funds are refunded to students efficiently, securely, and in accordance with federal requirements.

2.0   Requirements

2.1   Refund of Excess Financial Aid

Refunds are issued either by direct deposit or by paper check mailed to the student’s primary mailing address on file in the University Name and Address File (see UPPM 90.70). Students may update their primary mailing address by editing Main Menu > My Profile information in myWSU. Checks mailed to an invalid address will not be cancelled and re-issued for a minimum of ten working days.

The Bursar’s Office disburses refunds of excess financial aid beginning one week prior to the start of the term.

2.2   Requesting Direct Deposit of Refund (TouchNet)

To receive financial aid refunds by direct deposit, students must enroll in TouchNet Direct Deposit. Enrollment is completed online through the TouchNet Student Account portal, which is accessible from myWSU (see TouchNet Refunds for more information).

Students must enter valid U.S. checking or savings account information for a U.S. bank or credit union. Students are responsible for ensuring that their bank information is accurate and current.

2.3   Process and Timeline

Once TouchNet Direct Deposit is established, excess financial aid funds and other eligible refunds are transmitted electronically to the student’s designated bank account. In most cases, funds are available within three business days after the refund transaction appears on the student’s online account. Students should verify that funds have posted to their bank account before initiating financial commitments.

Students may monitor refund activity and account balances through the Student Finances section of myWSU or directly within the TouchNet Student Account system.

TouchNet Direct deposit remains active until the student updates or removes their bank information through the TouchNet Student Account portal.

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Revisions:  July 2026 (Rev. 657); May 2009 (Rev. 341); Feb. 2005 – new policy (Rev. 256).