SSI Payments Now Available on Debit Card
Social Security Income (SSI) recipients can now have their payments put on a debit card, which can be used to make purchases, pay bills and get cash at thousands of locations. The new program, called Direct Express, provides an alternative for people without checking accounts to receive their SSI payments. Direct deposit is still the best option for SSI recipients who have checking accounts. However, individuals who still receive paper checks are encouraged to enroll in the Direct Express program. To learn more and sign up for Direct Express, visit
http://fms.treas.gov/directexpresscard/index.html.
According to the Bureau of the United States Department of Treasury, The Direct Express® Debit MasterCard® provides another option for federal beneficiaries who do not have a bank account, but who are looking for a no-cost or low-cost alternative to using check cashing facilities and carrying large amounts of cash. According to their website you can also call the enrollment center toll free at 1 (877) 212-9991 (TTY 1 (866) 569-0447), or visit www.usdirectexpress.com.
