Can Social Security benefits be received on a prepaid debit card?
The Direct Express card is a prepaid debit card that is offered exclusively to federal benefit recipients, including Social Security recipients. It can be used to receive Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments, and can be used to make purchases, pay bills, and withdraw cash from ATMs. Cardholders can receive one free withdrawal per month at participating ATMs, and additional withdrawals may be subject to fees.
The Comerica MasterCard is also a prepaid debit card that is offered to Social Security and SSI recipients who do not have a bank account. It can be used to receive Social Security and SSI payments, as well as for purchases, bill payments, and cash withdrawals. The card also comes with some additional benefits, such as free ATM withdrawals at Comerica Bank ATMs and access to Comerica Bank’s financial education program.
It’s worth noting that Social Security beneficiaries can also choose to have their benefits directly deposited into their bank account, or receive a paper check in the mail. The choice of payment method is up to the beneficiary, and they can switch between payment methods at any time by contacting the Social Security Administration.
According to the Social Security Administration – You can start, change or cancel your direct deposit by:
Using your my Social Security account, if you receive Social Security retirement, spouse’s, disability or survivors benefits. You can sign into your account or set one up here; or
Calling us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday; or
Filling out a Direct Deposit Sign Up Form and taking or mailing it to your local Social Security office.
You can also call or visit your financial institution to change or enroll in direct deposit.
You can also enroll in direct deposit by calling the U.S. Department of Treasury at 1-800-333-1795.
If you live outside the United States, refer to Payments Outside the United States.
Note: When you apply for Social Security or Supplemental Security Income, you are required to receive your payments electronically. If you did not sign up for electronic payments when you applied for benefits, we suggest you do so now.
You must switch to electronic payments by March 1, 2013. If you did not select a form of electronic payment by March 1, 2013, we will continue to pay you by check, but Treasury will contact you about complying with the requirement.