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We are in the digital age and it’s now much safer and
more convenient to receive your Social Security (SSA) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments through the electronic option.
Why? First, because it’s faster, and second, because some of us who are a bit more absent-minded just don’t get along with paper checks.
Now, t
he SSA offers a very effective solution through direct deposit and the Direct Express card
, and we’re going to tell you everything you need to know to choose which option suits you best and why it could be the best decision you make this year.
Why choose electronic payment?
Mainly, because as we said, this payment eliminates all the risks associated with printed checks—no thefts, no losses, nothing. Once you sign up in the application and add your personal information, your monthly benefits go straight to your bank account, no intermediaries, nothing.
This method is not only fast, it’s also much safer: your money is protected, even if you lose or have your card stolen!
Also, we don’t like to wait, right? Well, now, with this method you can forget about having to go to the bank and stand in line to get your payments.
As soon as your check arrives, the money is immediately available, so you can pay bills, shop, or whatever you want.
What is the Direct Express card?
This Direct Express card is a debit card designed for those beneficiaries who do not have a bank account, so they can receive their funds directly on the card and it’s ready to use at ATMs (similar to the EBT cards from the SNAP program).
It also has key benefits, want to know what they are?
Benefits of the SSA Direct Express card
Guaranteed security with a PIN number and protection from the federal government.
Purchases and cash withdrawals across the U.S. without needing to carry cash.
Free notifications by phone, email, or text message when funds are deposited.
Why are electronic payments better?
Do we really need to say it again? Because there’s no risk at all—no losses, no thefts, the money is yours and it’s in your hands (specifically, your card) and every month, it automatically “refills” on payment day, so you don’t have to wait for the postal mail or go to the bank to cash the money.
But… what can I use it for?
For absolutely everything you can think of, from making purchases to getting cash, and of course, paying monthly bills that you have set up to be paid from these accounts.
Are there any fees?
Most transactions on this card are free of charges, no sign-up fees or monthly fees. You can shop at any store you like, withdraw funds from ATMs, with one withdrawal per deposit at Direct Express Network ATMs.
Also, you can use the DX Direct Express app to check your account balance and locate the nearest ATMs.
But, there’s one thing you should know: they may charge fees for some transactions, so here’s a chart to help you understand it better:
Transaction Type | Fee | |
Purchase at U.S. merchants | $0 | |
Cash back with purchase | $0 | |
ATM withdrawals (within network) | $0 for first withdrawal per month; $0.85 for each additional withdrawal | |
ATM balance inquiry | $0.25 | |
ATM transaction declined | $0.25 | |
Teller cash withdrawal (at a bank) | $0 | |
Monthly statement mailed to you | $0.75 | |
Card replacement | $4 (standard mail) / $13.50 (expedited) | |
International ATM withdrawal | $1.00 | |
International transaction fee (purchase) | 3% of the amount |
How do I sign up for electronic payment?
The process is very simple. You’ll need your Social Security number, your bank account number (or you can choose the Direct Express card), and some basic details like your address and date of birth. You can sign up online at
www.godirect.gov
or by calling 1-877-874-6347. It’s also possible to do it at your bank or at a local Social Security office.
And if you don’t have a bank account?
No problem: the Direct Express® card is designed precisely for you. With it, you’ll have access to your money without needing a bank account, while keeping the security and convenience you deserve!