Direct Express is the federal government's alternative to direct deposit for benefit recipients without a traditional bank account. Funds load onto the card on your scheduled deposit date and are FDIC-insured up to $250,000.
The card is free to receive. One ATM withdrawal per deposit at in-network ATMs is free; additional withdrawals carry small fees. Purchases anywhere Mastercard is accepted are always free.
To sign up, call 1-877-212-9991 or visit usdirectexpress.com. Most enrollments complete within 7 business days. You can switch to bank direct deposit anytime by updating your information through SSA.