By law, you are required to receive your Social Security benefits electronically.
This can be done by choosing direct deposit so they go directly into your bank account.
Another option is to have benefits deposited into your Direct Express Debit MasterCard account.
Social Security: What to do if someone calls you about your SSN or benefits
Signing up to get Social Security benefits with direct deposit
You’ll need to provide the SSA with the following for direct deposit
- SSN
- Routing transit number for your bank
- Account type you’re having benefits deposited into
- Bank account number
Your bank or Social Security can help you sort this out.
I need help from the SSA, how do I get it?
Direct Express and Social Security benefits
This option is a pre-paid debit card that you can use to spend your Social Security benefits.
You do not need a bank account for this option.
This program links an account to your card and makes your funds available on the payment date.
You can use the card like a regular card for purchases at the store, paying your bills, or to take out cash.
The use of the pre-paid debit card is designed to be safe, easy and convenient.
You’ll use a PIN for your card and it is FDIC insured. If it’s lost or stolen it will be replaced.
There are no fees to using the Direct Express card.
Benefits are paid one month behind
There are some fees for other uses of a Direct Express card and Social Security benefits
- ATM withdrawals have an $.85 fee
- Cash at a Walmart Money Center has an $.85 fee
- Paper statements have a $.75 fee
- Transferring funds to a personal bank account have a $1.50 fee
- Card replacements after a free one once per year are $4
- Overnight card replacement is $13.50
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