Relevant Information Regarding the Social Security Direct Express Debit Card

If you want your monthly government payments deposited directly onto a Direct Express® card, you won't have to bother about cashing checks or replacing stolen or missing ones. Instead of receiving a paper check in the mail, your funds will be deposited into your Direct Express® card account on the scheduled payment date.

Will I still be eligible for government assistance programs like SSI and Social Security?

With the Direct Express® card, your money is protected up to the FDIC's maximum limit. You are further shielded from financial loss due to fraudulent use of your card by Regulation E and the consumer protections afforded by MasterCard® Zero Liability (some exclusions apply) (12 CFR 1005). When promptly reported, this will affect your debit card balance. You can now apply for a replacement if your card has been lost or stolen.

How are credit cards different from debit cards like the Direct Express® card?

You can only make purchases with your Direct Express® debit card if there is money in the account. Your card will be charged full at the sale or shortly after that. In contrast to other credit cards, the Direct Express® card does not come with a credit line. Credit cards allow you to buy purchases on credit and repay the lender in a lump sum or installments at regular intervals.

To what end does having a Direct Express® card work?

The Direct Express® card makes it possible to receive direct deposit benefits even if you don't have a bank account.

Safe to use. This eliminates the risks associated with carrying large amounts of cash and writing paper cheques.

The Explanation Is Straightforward: Every month, funds will be deposited directly into your card account on the due date. Don't waste time expecting a letter delivery.

It's practical: You can use your Debit MasterCard® to shop or withdraw money from ATMs, banks, and credit unions, anywhere that accepts MasterCard.

How to apply for a Direct Express card?

The signup process is short and painless. Suppose you receive federal benefit payments like Social Security or Supplemental Security Income. In that case, you can enroll for a Direct Express® card by calling the toll-free enrollment center at 1 (800) 333-1795 or visiting your local federal paying agency.

Do I need to give my credit card number to the federal agency paying my benefits?

No. Once you apply for a Direct Express® debit card, the Social Security Administration and other federal paying agencies will be notified that you have an account. Direct Express® will provide the necessary information for the agencies to deposit your benefit payments into your account.

Can I still apply for the Direct Express® card if I already have a bank account?

There is no restriction on who can apply for the card; anyone receiving government aid can do so. If you have a bank account, we'd appreciate it if you'd consider signing up for direct deposit instead. To enroll in direct deposit, contact the Treasury's toll-free Go Direct® helpdesk at 1 (800) 333-1795, or visit www.GoDirect.gov. Direct deposit is available through your financial institution, credit union, bank, or the government's payment agency.

What alternatives do I have if I decide the Direct Express® card is not for me?

No risk is involved when you sign up for a Direct Express® card. We're confident you'll enjoy using your Direct Express® card, but if for any reason you decide you no longer want one, you may cancel your account by contacting the toll-free number on the back of your card. Before canceling your Direct Express® card, you should use all available cash.

Can you tell me how much the Direct Express® card will set you back?

Most offerings can be used without cost. No fees are associated with getting the card or using it each month. It's free to use the card. However, there are fees for certain purchases.

Is there a fee for using the ATM?

If you use your card at an ATM not part of the surcharge-free network, you may be charged a fee by the ATM's owner or operator. Tax has many names, but it is usually called an ATM owner fee or a surcharge. If you agree to pay the fee, it will be added to your card's balance; otherwise, you can use any other ATM you like. When you use your Direct Express® card to withdraw cash from an ATM, the surcharge is added on top of any additional fees