Direct Express® Prepaid Debit MasterCard®
Prepaid Card
Offered by:
Comerica Bank
Info about the Direct Express® Prepaid Debit MasterCard® has been collected by WalletHub to help consumers better compare prepaid cards. The financial institution did not provide the details.
Direct Express® Prepaid Debit MasterCard® 's Key Fees
| ACTIVATION FEE |
None |
|---|---|
| MONTHLY FEE |
None |
| SIGNATURE TRANSACTION FEE |
Free |
| PIN TRANSACTION FEE |
Free |
| IN-NETWORK ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
$0 |
| ATM NETWORK SIZE |
75000 ATMs |
| OUT-OF-NETWORK ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
$0.85 |
| FOREIGN ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
3% |
| ACTIVATION FEE |
|---|
| None |
| MONTHLY FEE |
| None |
| SIGNATURE TRANSACTION FEE |
| Free |
| PIN TRANSACTION FEE |
| Free |
| IN-NETWORK ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
| $0 |
| ATM NETWORK SIZE |
| 75000 ATMs |
| OUT-OF-NETWORK ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
| $0.85 |
| FOREIGN ATM TRANSACTION FEE |
| 3% |
Direct Express® Prepaid Debit MasterCard® 's Highlights
| No monthly fees, no hidden fees and most services are FREE! |
| When you sign up to receive your federal benefits on the Direct Express® card, you will receive your payment every month without having to worry about cashing your check or having it lost or stolen. Instead of receiving a check, your money will be automatically deposited to your Direct Express® card account on payment day |
| Use your card to withdraw cash from Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), make purchases at stores that accept Debit MasterCard®, and get cash back when you make those purchases. |
| One free ATM cash withdrawal for each deposit posted to account each month; $0.85 per additional withdrawal |
| The Direct Express® card surcharge-free ATM network offers surcharge free ATM access at approximately 75,000 ATMs throughout the country including Comerica Bank, Charter One, Privileged Status, Alliance One, PNC Bank, MasterCard® ATM Alliance, and MoneyPass |
Direct Express® Prepaid Debit MasterCard® 's Additional Info
| LIVE CUSTOMER SUPPORT |
|---|
| Free |
| AUTOMATED CUSTOMER SUPPORT |
| Free |
| RELOAD OPTIONS |
| Direct Deposit |
| CANCELLATION FEE |
|---|
| Free |
| INACTIVITY FEE |
| None |
at Comerica Bank's secure site
Customer Questions and Answers
Don't see what you're looking for? Submit your question about Direct Express® Prepaid Debit MasterCard® to our community.
What do I do if I lost my Direct Express card? Reply 103
WalletHub
@WalletHub
If your Direct Express Card is lost or stolen, immediately call the Direct Express customer service department at 1(888) 741-1115.
Calling right away will help make sure you aren’t held responsible for any unauthorized transactions made with your lost card.
Receiving a replacement card can take as long as 10 business days, but your funds will be available on the new card.
10
Upvotes
How do I put money on my Direct Express? Reply 5938
WalletHub
@WalletHub
Unfortunately, you cannot personally deposit funds to your account, as this card was designed specifically for the delivery of federal benefits. With the exception of credits from merchants where you use the card, only federal government agencies can add funds to a Direct Express account.
59
Upvotes
Which ATM doesn't charge fees? Reply 4721
WalletHub
@WalletHub
You can find a surcharge-free ATM near you using this tool: https://www.usdirectexpress.com/edcfdtclient/atmLocator.jsp . You are entitled to one free ATM cash withdrawal for each deposit made to your account. Each additional withdrawal will cost $0.85. Hope this helps.
47
Upvotes
Do I get my Social Security money early? Reply 4424
WalletHub
@WalletHub
Unfortunately not. Your payments are automatically deposited to your debit card account on the same day that you currently receive your regular paper check. Hope this helps.
44
Upvotes
How is the card sent out to me? Reply 3811
WalletHub
@WalletHub
When you submit your application for the Direct Express debit card, Comerica Bank (the issuer) will verify your personal information and confirm the details of your benefit payments with the relevant federal agency. Assuming there are no issues with this, you should receive your Direct Express debit card in the mail within 7 to 14 days. Your payments will then be automatically deposited to your new debit card account on the same day you currently receive your regular paper check. Hope this helps. Best of luck!
38
Upvotes
Can I do a balance transfer with this card? Reply 2616
WalletHub
@WalletHub
Yes, you can transfer funds from your Direct Express card account to a personal U.S. bank account. Keep in mind that a fee of $1.50 will be deducted from your card account for each transfer made. To transfer funds, call the Direct Express Card Customer Service Department toll free at 1 (888) 741-1115 or visit the web www.USDirectExpress.com. Best of luck!
26
Upvotes
What is the Direct Express routing number? Reply 2511
WalletHub
@WalletHub
Direct Express doesn't make routing numbers publicly available for their cards.
You will be assigned an account number and Comerica Bank (the card’s issuer) does have a routing number, but you won’t need it.
You just need to sign up and activate your card. Comerica Bank will then notify the Social Security Administration that you have a Direct Express account and your benefits will automatically be loaded to the account moving forward.
25
Upvotes
Can I get a cash advance from a bank or ATM? Reply 2311
WalletHub
@WalletHub
This is a prepaid card, not a credit card, so you won’t be able to get any sort of cash loan or advance on your government benefits at an ATM. But you can use the card to withdraw benefit payments that have already been deposited to your account. You are entitled to one “free” ATM cash withdrawal for each deposit to your account. That means Direct Express will not charge you, but ATM owner surcharges may apply. You can learn how to avoid such fees when using the Direct Express Card, here: https://www.usdirectexpress.com/edcfdtclient/atmLocator.jsp
23
Upvotes
Why can't I access my card or the customer service? It's supposed to be 24/7. Reply 174
WalletHub
@WalletHub
You’re right, live customer service is supposed to be available 24/7 over the phone (1-888-741-1115) and you should always be able to access your account online (https://www.usdirectexpress.com/edcfdtclient/login.html). It may just be that Comerica Bank (the issuer of this card) had an internal problem and/or was implementing changes to its website.
17
Upvotes
How do I activate my new card? Reply 166
WalletHub
@WalletHub
You can activate your card by calling customer service at 1 (888) 741-1115. You will be required to provide your card number, the last four digits of your social security number and your date of birth.
16
Upvotes
Direct Express® Prepaid Debit MasterCard® Reviews
Share your insights and review the Direct Express® Prepaid Debit MasterCard® .
Dec 31, 2019
Today I discovered I was shorted $88 of my SSI payment; naturally, I was unable to talk to a live person despite numerous phone calls. It seems to be planned that way. This is the second time this year that I've been ripped off by these scam artists; they held me responsible for a fraudulent transaction of $150 in January 2019 I clearly did not make. They are nothing but scam artists and their customer service reps are lazy and rude.… show more
Comment
Dec 07, 2019
Every time I call I'm on hold for a long period of time and then I get hung up on!!! I lost my card in over to 10 days ago and I still have not received it and I cannot get anyone on the phone to help me as I ordered an expedited card overnight!! This company and its people that work for them suck!!!!
Dec 06, 2019
I had a fraudulent charge & reported it immediately after being on hold over an hour to do so. A few days later I had another fraudulent charge that took all but less than $2 from my account. I called immediately, within an hour, to report it & was on hold an hour & 20 minutes. Card was canceled & new card received. Stayed on hold over an hour to activate new card then told to hold again while being transferred to "Level Two" and spent another hour & a half on hold. Was told by that agent that they would "try" to get my money put back but it would probably take 45 days. The money stolen from my account was all of my Social Security benefit for this month. My debIt card has never been out of my possession. NEVER. The agent asked bizarre questions, was rude & unprofessional. I thought I had protection from fraudulent charges. Also being kept on hold for HOURS & HOURS for so called customer service is a disgrace.… show more
Oct 30, 2019
The one thing i don't like about direct express is that you cant add money or there is no routing number and you cant get any cash advance or emergenct cash advance. So it dosent make since to jeep direct express.
Sep 16, 2019
Very poor Customer Service! I've been trying to get through for over a month! I have an unauthorized debit that I disputed several months ago! I was given my $400+ dollars in provisional credit! You decided to honor them and they've been trying to collect the money again because they said you did'nt pay them, also my credit report is affected! You've put me in an awful situation and now your system tells me to call again at a later date, everyday, everytime I call! I don't force you to pay merchants that you don't feel earned ypur money? You've done this to me several times and you all don't deserve to have a Federal account! Your Customer Service does'nt include the Customer!… show more
Aug 23, 2019
Direct express is a bunch of worthless thieves they let your money disappear and not want to replace it at all. I found out today that there is a class action lawsuit against them. I went and hired a lawyer today I’m tired of them stealing our money. If you have ever had problems I advise you to call a lawyer immediately. Plus get involved in the class action suit if I could give them 0 stars I would I would put them negative 1000 stars… show more
08/23/19
So I’m giving a update as of 8/23/19 at 6:30 I spoke to direct express once again about my provisional credit they just stated there was no wrong doings it was my fault and that they wasn’t replacing my money at all. Everyone I advise you to get away from this company ASAP and get a lawyer
Jul 17, 2019
Worthless if you thank this card is good its not anyone can take money from you i have lost 1100 and its been 2 months and still have nothing back they suck and if you believe them good luck i hope they don't take money from you
08/23/19
Direct express currently has a class action lawsuit against them right now please reach out to a lawyer immediately. Plus you can sue them on your own outside of the class action suit
May 09, 2019
Please read and beaware.I have this particular card for my social security benefits. I didn't have many problems until somehow my card got frauded. The strange thing is someone used my card to by a plane ticket outside of the US . It wasn't even used in the US for this transaction yet the federal government who works with this card allowed the transaction to go through and it was for several hundred dollars. This company direct express is holding the money until investing is over with and they are not wanting to work with my local authorities on the case. Yes a report had to be filed and lots of paperwork had to be sent in to direct express. They are saying it can be 3 or more months before I can maybe get the money back. This is insane considering the transaction shouldn't have ever been allowed to begin with considering it was used not in the US and for airpane tickets. So now I am wanting to let people know that this card is not secure and you will not be able to get the funds back from fraud easily at all. I suggest to anyone with this card get rid of it. Cancel it and get a bank account with someone or anyone . Bank accounts will replace the money till the investigation is complete.Just don't keep this card. It truly is horrible when you are left without being able have the money to live on that you really need. I hope this review can atleast help 1 person from the pain .… show more
Jan 16, 2019
They have the worst customer service and have a in house problem with Freud of are personal information. I faxed them 4 times and they kept saying this was wrong that is wrong and hanging up on me, so its a in the House problem of Direct Express, I learned that when I went to social sucurity, The Guy Jumped Up and said Not Another One, We Got Like 80 Of These In The Last FEW Days, meaning Complaints About Direct Express...THAT SAID EVERYTHING I NEEDED TO KNOW, So Im Out Today As A Disabled Vet I Can Get I Deal On Debit Credit Card Or Just Being Disabled I Can Get Free Debit Card Account At Bank of America or Chase for Vets. But dont Deal with Direct Express, Hanging Up On Customer Is Wrong and I Was Being Nice, But Firm, I Didnt Know The Problem Was On The Insider, I Do Now, If your Disabled or a Vet or both Go to a Local Bank that gives Deals to the Disabled or Veteran's.....Your Heard it From The Horses Mouth, Good Luck !!!… show more
Dec 06, 2018
Terrible customer service, when you call you finally get a recording that says they are experiencing high call volume and to call back later. If you choose "lost or stolen card" then you get a live person after a long wait. They can't really answer any questions without putting you on hold. Terrible web site also. I'm closing this account and will never use them again. I can't imagine why this is the default for Social Security. I should have read reviews last year.… show more
Dec 04, 2018
To anyone reading this please, please DO NOT GET THIS CARD you may live to regret it . If you have no problems you may think its works good with low fees and your checks deposited on time to your card. But do you know that you have no security like a bank with this card and they are just a
process center that can not help you , they take down your problem or questions and sends it off to Comerica Bank which will take no responsibility , great setup for them not for the people that depend on this to live. Direct Express cards are being stolen, accounts hacked , money removed without owners approval and you are the individual that will have little to no recourse to get your money back or see justice services. Because they have millions of accounts you many get lucky and never have a problem but can you take that chance? What will you do when your check is stolen because you will have almost no recourse. Direct Express and Comerica Ban
are being targeted and no one is stopping it . Fraud and complaints are not being processed or handled properly our disabled and seniors are being robbed , I know because I'm one of them . This scheme of getting a new card on someone account then changing the address, phone number and PIN has been going on for a long time and is still not being stop ,one call to the account owner before the card is sent and it could be stopped, but it goes on and people lives are being destroyed . Without that money some people many end up homeless at the minimum your life is turn into hell . This has to stop ! Start with having your money put into a local bank or credit union that will at least save your next payments also change your passwords because someone has most or maybe all your personal information. Think about getting a credit monitoring service . Make some Noise to your senators, congressman , FBI , local police department, sites online like this, make yourself be herd keep calling DE and Comerica bank don't be rude, I'm sure your mad but it not going to help . Ask questions ,get names ,phone numbers and times for your requested to be completed. Stay on top of everything!!!… show more
process center that can not help you , they take down your problem or questions and sends it off to Comerica Bank which will take no responsibility , great setup for them not for the people that depend on this to live. Direct Express cards are being stolen, accounts hacked , money removed without owners approval and you are the individual that will have little to no recourse to get your money back or see justice services. Because they have millions of accounts you many get lucky and never have a problem but can you take that chance? What will you do when your check is stolen because you will have almost no recourse. Direct Express and Comerica Ban
are being targeted and no one is stopping it . Fraud and complaints are not being processed or handled properly our disabled and seniors are being robbed , I know because I'm one of them . This scheme of getting a new card on someone account then changing the address, phone number and PIN has been going on for a long time and is still not being stop ,one call to the account owner before the card is sent and it could be stopped, but it goes on and people lives are being destroyed . Without that money some people many end up homeless at the minimum your life is turn into hell . This has to stop ! Start with having your money put into a local bank or credit union that will at least save your next payments also change your passwords because someone has most or maybe all your personal information. Think about getting a credit monitoring service . Make some Noise to your senators, congressman , FBI , local police department, sites online like this, make yourself be herd keep calling DE and Comerica bank don't be rude, I'm sure your mad but it not going to help . Ask questions ,get names ,phone numbers and times for your requested to be completed. Stay on top of everything!!!… show more
Sep 27, 2018
DO NOT get this direct express card. Mine was stolen and my account was wiped out. Direct Express are horrible people to deal with. They blame and punish the victim. They give you a provisional credit but take it back 20 days later. It is impossible to get someone on the line and when you do, they really don't care that YOUR money was stolen. Their investigators are lazy and indifferent and it can take up to 3 months before you get your money back, if you do. Better to get a savings account at a real bank and have your social security sent their. I hope that 60 minutes investigates direct express, because they are just as guilty of fraud as the person who stole your money.… show more
Jul 12, 2018
DIRECT EXPRESS is the worst card I have used.. it has been a total NIGHTMARE I recieved my disability benefits on the 3rd of the month the following day I used my card and noticed my balance seemed low I logged into my account and noticed 2 transactions made in Huntington Park CA. I live in Texas I have never been to California or have family there.
I called customer service and was informed to close acct and withdraw my money I filed a dispute and was told it can take any where from 45 to 90 days to resolve. O was shook unbelievable I told them that the proof was right in front of them a RED FLAG should have been raised immediately when I was using my card in Texas why would someone else be using it in CA? Never ever again using this card after reading all reviews I believe that this company it self are the THIEVES cause most fraudulent incidents seem to happen in some part of California something needs to be done too many people money is being taken and nothing seems to be done about it.
Rated only 1 star only because I wanted to write a review cause other then that it's not deserved… show more
I called customer service and was informed to close acct and withdraw my money I filed a dispute and was told it can take any where from 45 to 90 days to resolve. O was shook unbelievable I told them that the proof was right in front of them a RED FLAG should have been raised immediately when I was using my card in Texas why would someone else be using it in CA? Never ever again using this card after reading all reviews I believe that this company it self are the THIEVES cause most fraudulent incidents seem to happen in some part of California something needs to be done too many people money is being taken and nothing seems to be done about it.
Rated only 1 star only because I wanted to write a review cause other then that it's not deserved… show more
May 17, 2018
Customer service is horrible and rude also trying to dispute a transaction is extremely difficult probably so people won\'t file disputes I have no faith that I will ever see my money returned to me cetainly not anytime soon
May 07, 2018
The card is fine as long as you don\'t need to talk to anyone. I simply needed to change my address after a move. Go online and it will tell you to use the online menu to change the address. But there is NO menu to change your address online. Other places tell you to call their 800 number to change it. There is NO menu to change your address on their 800 number. The phone menu is nothing but recorded messages that lead you to more recorded messages. They have a mail address. I mailed a change of address form there and they simply ignored it. Now I\'m having trouble buying things online because the address Direct Express has on record is different from my mailing address. I\'m online now looking for another card. I\'m fed up with Direct Express.… show more
Apr 14, 2018
Ive tryed to a few times have funds transfered to my directexpress. With out having a ,routing number it was inposable to do.there for
I applied for a netspend with routing.now I need help ?turning in directexpress. In exchange for my
netspend
I applied for a netspend with routing.now I need help ?turning in directexpress. In exchange for my
netspend
Mar 16, 2018
just as the previous reviews, i am experiencing the same results...the scammers took the check as soon as it came in. the check that we depend on to live. our retirement that we paid. call in, repeat yourself. be told that you will be transferred to the dispute dept. be told to fill out the forms when usps delivers them. you cannot look up your statements online now, because all you have is the old card number. when you argue with the dispute dept finally they tell you the "geiza", the place you paid, is in egypt. hmm… show more
Mar 03, 2018
Direct Express mailed me a card that I did not request. The card could have been easily activated by anyone who opened the envelope and my benefits would have been deposited to this card instead of going into my checking account. I wouldn't know about it until my money started disappearing. This is a scam that is targeting disabled vets and those who are on social security. Stay away from this company and report problems to your state's attorney general. That's the only way to get rid of these assholes. NEVER activate a card you haven't requested and watch your mail carefully.… show more
Nov 02, 2017
The only problem I've had was after making a purchase I'd recheck my card to see my balance and it would tell me I had so much at that time, then without making anymore purchase for a while I'd check it again and it would be less then the amount before. The company said there was no hidden fees yet somehow my money gets removed without me ever making any purchase.how is that possible.
Aug 21, 2017
It is very convenient but if u have a transaction dispute it takes a long time for a resolution! You will receive a provisional credit but if they make a mistake it takes a long time to get YOU'RE MONEY BACK! Also it is very hard to get through to them by phone, call volume is always high and you get placed on hold, and get disconnected after being on hold!
Jun 01, 2017
I have my SSI and SSA checks direct deposit to this card...Opened this card acct. three months ago and they are still getting confused with my deposits. Social Security has called them several times. We thought it was straightened out last month with our worker's help, but lo and behold, this month it is the same thing. When I called the customer service, the woman was very loud and rude. Saying that the SSI had been deposited on the old card. I had a card about 14 years ago but it was expired. Now I find out that the SSI went on that card. Customer Service personnel are not very patient. The woman was VERY, VERY RUDE and would not let me speak to anyone else. It took another call later when I had a man customer service person who was a little nicer but also not patient when I tried to explain the situation. I would NOT recommend Direct Express to anyone. If you have Direct Express now and run into problems down the road, you will be treated with a lack of respect and understanding.… show more
May 16, 2017
These are the worst customer service reps I have ever had the displeasure of dealing with in my life. My father's SSI was stolen from his card and trying to get a hold of someone to dispute the charges was nearly impossible. From the day that it happened, he started calling at 4AM, and 9 days later we FINALLY got a hold of someone!!!! The dispute department has no direct line and every time he called, he had to give every single piece of information that could possibly be required, only to be transferred to this dispute department, only to be disconnected due to heavy call volume. No holding, no live person, no direct line, just hung up on after calling and calling and calling for 9 days! He couldn't pay rent, he couldn't buy his medicine, he couldn't pay his cell phone and no one could have cared in the slightest. The customer service was extremely rude and the supervisor we spoke to was even worse!! I've never experienced anything like this in my life. It was completely unacceptable to treat people this way and we will be switching to a different payment method as soon as possible so that we NEVER have to deal with them again!!… show more
Mar 01, 2017
Customer service is abysmal at best and when you need any kind of assistance, they won't be there.
Jan 02, 2017
Well I wish I was so lucky I signed up and never got a card now I have no way to access my money until 3 to 5 days
Aug 04, 2016
absolutely horrible customer service, I am trying to get my money out,but its frozen, they want paperwork submitted which I did, and still,they want more,meanwhile the bills are due, no food to eat.Ive never had this problem,and its so stressful,trying to get a hold of them is a nightmare too..I opened a bank account and stopping my benefits going there to that direct express BS card,but this month I will be fighting to get my funds unfroze,meanwhile I hope I dont become homeless.Its a very bad business,and those that think its all good,wait till this sorta thing happens..
P.S. - I think that their company is compromised,with all those fake charges from other countries. I just pray to God that this will be resolved soon, rents due the 13th..I dont wanna live in my truck,its 100 plus degrees here in texas.This is a very bad spot to be in,I hope all of you alls probs get fixed too, this is horrible to go through..… show more
P.S. - I think that their company is compromised,with all those fake charges from other countries. I just pray to God that this will be resolved soon, rents due the 13th..I dont wanna live in my truck,its 100 plus degrees here in texas.This is a very bad spot to be in,I hope all of you alls probs get fixed too, this is horrible to go through..… show more
May 13, 2016
I think this card is horrible. I had someone call and get a replacement card while i was incapacitated, they spent over $4000 in 9 months. I sent proof that it could not of been me...my claim was denied. Last month an online company got my info amd repeatedly tried charging different amounts on my card. Only one charge for 44.87 went thru because I had no more money on my card. Direct express recieved, reviewed amd denied my claim in 3 days! They say your funds are secure, this is not my definition of secure.… show more
Apr 29, 2016
Usdirectexpress just wiped out my account for $540.00 and left me with $2.08 to last me for 10 and I can't seem to contact anybody about it. The customer service acts like they don't want to be bothered with me, but left almost penniless. I see here on facebook this has happed to other disabled veterans where usdirectexpress apparently steals all your money and you claim transferred it because your personal information was used to get the money. I live alone and no one been to my home or near computer, I also have card and have not disclosed this information to anyone. I have been locked out of the website, I wait 15 to 20 minutes when call them because customer service puts me on hold and won't come back to the phone, so I have to hang up and call back and go through step again to speak to a customer service agent. I don't know what to do they took everything last month, food money, fun money and bill money and won't stop talking me like talking pure shit. What is happening in North America I had similar problems with US bank that's why I Us direct express. Lord I want vengeance.… show more
Apr 18, 2016
Accured multple late fees on billsbdue to Direct Express cancelling and reissuing my card WITHOUT my permission. They lost all funds in the transfer. Told have to fill out fraud claims to get it back. 2 months and no forms received. I used the savings option as well. Funds are suppose to be transfered to be available with in 24 hours. Four days and still can not access my money. Spoke to several customer service reps and 2 supervisors. Was told to "f" off, hung up on, and lied to multiple times. Supervisor said the only soulution was to go back to paper checks, cancel their service and not recover my money they lost. I'm rating 1 star to post review. To bad they don't have a negative star option.… show more
Apr 15, 2016
Hate the fact you cannot use direct deposit from other sources ( child support, it comes from gov agency) or deposit checks. Would be beneficial to keep money in one place!
Mar 19, 2016
When asking yourself where are my funds; The answer is no one knows! Not Social Security or this Debit card company. It took me about 2 weeks to
contact anyone & another week to find out no one would take responsibility for it's loss. Noone takes responsibility for your loss!!!!! You never get a statement to prove your loss. Such as myself back in November of 2015 they told me they shut my account off because they thought someone from Japan was using it. They made me get a new one for December & pay for it too!
Then in December they just shut it off for no reason. Good thing I had informed SS to send my money to a bank where I get a Savings, Checking & Debit Card for free! They took $290.16 of my money & have yet to see a penny. I called BBB of San Antonio Texas where their main bank Comerica is located/they in turn sent me back to my local BBB/They had me write my letter of complaint/They notified the bank & Social Security or nothing would have come of this. I had to borrow money from a friend to cover my bills. I thank my stars she could do this for me. I have been sent a letter from SS stating that they took back my funds from this bank but I have not seen a penny. I have paid my friend back with my SS check which is only $778.00 a month. It is my sole income. This company is a sham at best. Social Security puts their pamphlets out on their counter for all to take & apply for this card because it is direct deposit but the company cannot handle the surge of complaints at the beginning of each month. You get put on hold or transferred to another agent who is too busy & your call is dropped. For those of you who are poor & can only afford a per minute phone, it will cost you a fortune for all the time they waste of your on the phone. My recommendation is to go with a FEDERAL CREDIT BANK! STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM SOCIAL SECURITY AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE & NEVER DEAL WITH THIS BANK!When asking yourself where are my funds; The answer is no one knows! Not Social Security or this Debit card company. It took me about 2 weeks to contact anyone & another week to find out no one would take responsibility for it's loss. Noone takes responsibility for your loss!!!!! You never get a statement to prove your loss. Such as myself back in November of 2015 they told me they shut my account off because they thought someone from Japan was using it. They made me get a new one for December & pay for it too!
Then in December they just shut it off for no reason. Good thing I had informed SS to send my money to a bank where I get a Savings, Checking & Debit Card for free! They took $290.16 of my money & have yet to see a penny. I called BBB of San Antonio Texas where their main bank Comerica is located/they in turn sent me back to my local BBB/They had me write my letter of complaint/They notified the bank & Social Security or nothing would have come of this. I had to borrow money from a friend to cover my bills. I thank my stars she could do this for me. I have been sent a letter from SS stating that they took back my funds from this bank but I have not seen a penny. I have paid my friend back with my SS check which is only $778.00 a month. It is my sole income. This company is a sham at best. Social Security puts their pamphlets out on their counter for all to take & apply for this card because it is direct deposit but the company cannot handle the surge of complaints at the beginning of each month. You get put on hold or transferred to another agent who is too busy & your call is dropped. For those of you who are poor & can only afford a per minute phone, it will cost you a fortune for all the time they waste of your on the phone. My recommendation is to go with a FEDERAL CREDIT BANK! STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM SOCIAL SECURITY AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE & NEVER DEAL WITH THIS BANK!… show more
contact anyone & another week to find out no one would take responsibility for it's loss. Noone takes responsibility for your loss!!!!! You never get a statement to prove your loss. Such as myself back in November of 2015 they told me they shut my account off because they thought someone from Japan was using it. They made me get a new one for December & pay for it too!
Then in December they just shut it off for no reason. Good thing I had informed SS to send my money to a bank where I get a Savings, Checking & Debit Card for free! They took $290.16 of my money & have yet to see a penny. I called BBB of San Antonio Texas where their main bank Comerica is located/they in turn sent me back to my local BBB/They had me write my letter of complaint/They notified the bank & Social Security or nothing would have come of this. I had to borrow money from a friend to cover my bills. I thank my stars she could do this for me. I have been sent a letter from SS stating that they took back my funds from this bank but I have not seen a penny. I have paid my friend back with my SS check which is only $778.00 a month. It is my sole income. This company is a sham at best. Social Security puts their pamphlets out on their counter for all to take & apply for this card because it is direct deposit but the company cannot handle the surge of complaints at the beginning of each month. You get put on hold or transferred to another agent who is too busy & your call is dropped. For those of you who are poor & can only afford a per minute phone, it will cost you a fortune for all the time they waste of your on the phone. My recommendation is to go with a FEDERAL CREDIT BANK! STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM SOCIAL SECURITY AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE & NEVER DEAL WITH THIS BANK!When asking yourself where are my funds; The answer is no one knows! Not Social Security or this Debit card company. It took me about 2 weeks to contact anyone & another week to find out no one would take responsibility for it's loss. Noone takes responsibility for your loss!!!!! You never get a statement to prove your loss. Such as myself back in November of 2015 they told me they shut my account off because they thought someone from Japan was using it. They made me get a new one for December & pay for it too!
Then in December they just shut it off for no reason. Good thing I had informed SS to send my money to a bank where I get a Savings, Checking & Debit Card for free! They took $290.16 of my money & have yet to see a penny. I called BBB of San Antonio Texas where their main bank Comerica is located/they in turn sent me back to my local BBB/They had me write my letter of complaint/They notified the bank & Social Security or nothing would have come of this. I had to borrow money from a friend to cover my bills. I thank my stars she could do this for me. I have been sent a letter from SS stating that they took back my funds from this bank but I have not seen a penny. I have paid my friend back with my SS check which is only $778.00 a month. It is my sole income. This company is a sham at best. Social Security puts their pamphlets out on their counter for all to take & apply for this card because it is direct deposit but the company cannot handle the surge of complaints at the beginning of each month. You get put on hold or transferred to another agent who is too busy & your call is dropped. For those of you who are poor & can only afford a per minute phone, it will cost you a fortune for all the time they waste of your on the phone. My recommendation is to go with a FEDERAL CREDIT BANK! STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM SOCIAL SECURITY AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE & NEVER DEAL WITH THIS BANK!… show more
Feb 26, 2016
no reload idea is bad because what if you have a eft withdraw at end of month and dont have funds to cover it? thanks for the problem,now what?
04/25/16
I totally agree with Robert.. Need to be able to reload it if it runs out. most people buy stuff online and you have to have a prepaid card to pay it..if not..your screwed.. Everyone takes credit cards these days and believe it or not..I went to check into a hotel not long ago and they" refused" to take CASH.. REFUSED CASH!!! FOR REAL? I MEAN WTF...THATS CRAZY.
Feb 10, 2016
On Feb 4th someone in Mexico made fraudulent transactions on my account. Direct Express finally did a fraud suspension on my card when I only had 4 cents left. I asked them why they did not freeze card when the first transaction was made and they stated they tried to call me. I had no missed calls or messages on my phone. I answered all their questions and they said they would send fraud paperwork for me to fill out. They stated I could get a provisional credit as long as they get that paper work within 10 days. Well I have yet to even receive the paperwork. I called and finally got a human...although she did not act human. She was very rude and said you need to write all these transactions down and send a dispute letter since you did not get our fraud packet. But we must receive letter by Feb 19 to give you credit. This is ridiculous. I advised them I have never been to Mexico. Then she said will take 45-90 days maybe longer if they confirm fraud. I am disgusted that seniors and disabled are treated this way.… show more
04/18/16
Been waiting 5 weeks for fraud paper work. They said we have to fill out. Only it wasn't fraud from the outside. They cancelled and reissued another card without permission and lost funds in the transfer. ??? Was also told to F off by a person claiming to be a supervisor.
Feb 10, 2016
these cards are easy to be cloned and scammed to be used to make purchases cleaning out your card account when this happens you will have to file a dispute which can take months in the mean time you starve to death with no money to live on ,go to a bank open up a checking account many are free get a secured debit card with a chip in it they are protected if someone scamms money from your checking account the bank will deposit the funds in your account pending the investigation directexpress will not and they will drag their feet and will take you months to recover your losses if at all they are not a bank but a fly by night debit card company… show more
Feb 08, 2016
02/03/16, my entire disability check, $851.00, was stolen by someone who on 1/27/16 at 11:46 p.m., changed my address, got a NEW Direct Express debit card using my information but a Florida address. I live in Georgia. I've been given the runaround with Direct Express and Comerica. I've sent emails all over the place. SSA shouldn't recommend this company to ANYONE. It's absolutely RIDICULOUS!!! My disability money should be safe but obviously it's not. I'm praying I get my money back. I'm on disability for a reason and I need to keep my doctor's appts. and buy medication.… show more
Jan 20, 2016
Direct Express customer service is horrible. There was a fraudulent transaction on my card January 1, 2016, my card was frozen on January 2, 2016, I spoke with the Direct Express Fraud department on January 3, 2016 to confirm I did NOT make the transaction. AFTER that phone call Direct Express released the funds to the fraudulent "person". Now Direct Express is telling me I will get my money back after their 45-90 day investigation IF my dispute is approved.… show more
Jan 11, 2016
I've been receiving Social Security benefits on the Direct Express card for several years. All was fine till I tried to use my card the other day and it was declined. I called Direct Express 14 times (kept being put on hold, then disconnected) before finally speaking to a supervisor who could explain why my card was not working. Someone in another state had made purchases, in person, for almost $1,200, even though my card has never been out of my possession. I've filed a dispute and am waiting for forms to fill out, even though I answered dozens of questions while on the phone with them. I've been told the process can take up to 90 days, not sure how I'm going to pay bills in the meantime. It is completely unacceptable for this company to continue to be allowed to handle benefits for Social Security recipients, especially as it is the only alternative to direct deposit and some people do not qualify for a checking account because of their credit. If you must have your funds placed on this card, it would be wise to withdraw them completely as soon as they are available each month.… show more
02/10/16
i got shitty credit i went to chase bank and opened a checking and savings account totally free but yes pull all your money out as soon as possible if you need a debit card buy one for om walmart for 5.00 activation fee put just enough on the card to pay what ever on the internet etc this way if someone steals the card or clones it because of no chip installed on a secure card your not wiped out of your money… show more
02/08/16
They did the same to me but I've not found the place to place my complaint. They told me that SS took the money as "Cash Settlement" I called SS & they said that there is no ability to take the money back. First SS recommend this form of transaction then they deny any responsibility & Direct Express Debit takes no responsibility. I was forced to ask a friend for a loan & it has put me in the rears for months. Do you know how to contact this outfit? Again I have taken all my monty payments from January 2016 forward & had them transferred to a Federal Savings account w/checks & debit card & because they rely on Federal funds won't mess with this account. Direct Express just closed the first card because someone supposedly was using my number in Japan. Then when they took the money out of that account & issued me a new card that I had to pay for, my money after bills was a surplus of $290.16. They just closed the account before I spent the whole check. That's when I decided to get the hell out of Direct Express. I am going to town hall to see if I can get a Politician to find my money. Please if you have any information to place a complaint you can contact me on Facebook under Kathryn A Irwin. Thanks!!… show more
Sep 24, 2015
The Direct Express MasterCard Prepaid Card seems like it would be a good option for people who are receiving government benefits. I wish I could find something similar for myself. It would be a handy alternative to PayPal or Amazon Payments.The prepaid VISA cards I have used charge a $5 activation fee. I like that this card is basically free.
02/08/16
Find a Federal Credit Union in your neighborhood. I have one that supplies checks & a debit card. NO FEE!
11/18/15
i have found a card through american express called 'serve" it has way better fees than a traditional prepaid card. and it was free to get. i have also used it and when there is money on there it only charges a monthly fee of $1.00. online account access and have never had a problem with it.
Sep 04, 2015
I would not use this card for VA disability payments. I lost my card and they claim for $13.60 they would send another UPS and I should receive it in two days. They were supposed to email the tracking number which they never did. Trying to call customer service is a nightmare. Anytime you call, early in the morning, afternoon, late at night, they , message is always they are experiencing a heavy call volume and immediately hang up. They do not have a customer service option when you cal the number. I am without money right now and don't know when I will get my card. I plan on contacting the VA to let them know about the poor services. Once this is straightened out, I will be opening a bank account for my money to be deposited. Warning to anyone on SSI or VA benefits, DO NOT USE THE DIRECT EXPRESS CARD. Google the complaints about this card. I wish I had read it before agreeing to having my money put on this card. I feel so dumb for allowing this because something told me to decline and let a local bank handle my funds. Other veterans told me I should have never opted for the card. Most have their money deposited to their bank accounts and get their money a couple of days earlier than card holders. Go to the Direct Express site and read even more complaints about missing money, replacement cards taking weeks, or a month to be received.… show more
02/10/16
file complaints to the atty generals office in your state and your politician its election time someone will act
01/07/16
They just did the same thing to me. My card was expiring DEC. 31,2016. I called them weeks ahead of time for a new one but it never came. When I called them back in January and told them it never came,they told me it was returned to sender.... That's a lie. No one lives with me and my mailbox is locked... Either they sent it to the wrong address or they never sent it. So they mail the card and I get it they charge me $13 and some change. I shouldn't have to pay for their mistake. This is not fair and I don't think I am gone to continue to use them for my deposits anymore… show more
Aug 25, 2015
Does my Direct Express Social Security Debit card need the new Gold Chip on it? And because I live full time in another country out side of USA how do I get the Gold Chip to put on it?
02/10/16
yes for a secured card they can't be cloned not a good idea to use a un secured debit card out of the country if you do pull all your money out if your card gets cloned they will clean out your account direct express dont put money back in pending your claim
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Last updated on: January 9th, 2020 at 14:44
WalletHub is an independent comparison service.
We work hard to show you up-to-date product terms, however, this information does not originate from us and thus, we do not guarantee its accuracy. When you click "Apply Now" you will be directed to the offering institution's website. In addition, keep in mind that actual rates and other information may vary for a number of reasons including the applicant's' creditworthiness and differences between an individual's situation and the criteria/assumptions used to generate the information displayed. Before submitting an application, always verify all terms and conditions with the offering institution. Please let us know if you notice any differences.
Ad Disclosure: Offers originating from paying advertisers are noted as “Sponsored” at the top of this page. Advertising may impact how and where offers appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). At WalletHub we try to present a wide array of offers, but our offers do not represent all financial services companies or products.
Irrespective of whether an offering institution is a paid advertiser, the presence of offer information on WalletHub does not constitute a referral or endorsement of the institution by us or vice versa. Furthermore, offers have not been reviewed or approved by the offering institution. Information is displayed first and foremost to help consumers make better decisions.
Editorial Disclaimer: Editorial and user-generated content on this page is not provided, commissioned, reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer. In addition, it is not issuer’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.
Offer last updated: Jan 9th, 2020 at 14:44 ET