JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

In an effort to save money and prevent fraud a new law now requires that federal payments such as Social Security be paid electronically to beneficiaries, in lieu of checks. Starting on March 1, 2013, payments will be submitted to beneficiaries electronically via direct deposit to a bank account or distributed via government-issued debit cards.

About two years ago, new beneficiaries were required to designate an account for direct deposit of benefits. However, upon seeing the cost savings of this program, the government decided to implement the “Go Direct” initiative and switch all beneficiaries to the direct payment program.  Before the switch, the Social Security Administration (SSA) and other government entities that will be affected under this program advise beneficiaries to designate a bank account for direct deposit of funds or participate in the prepaid debit card program.

There are exemptions for certain individuals:  those born before March 1, 1929; mentally impaired individuals; and those living in rural areas with limited access to banking institutions. These recipients may request waivers. Individuals without bank accounts can opt for prepaid debit cards that can allow access to funds via ATMs throughout Pennsylvania.

Individuals who do not designate a bank account for direct deposit will not lose their benefits on March 1^st, but might be automatically enrolled in the direct debit card program. For more information on the “Go Direct” program, visit www.godirect.org.

This switch can have a massive effect on the nearly 180,000 Pennsylvanians receiving Social Security benefits. For questions about your benefits or to request a review of your potential claim, contact the experienced Pennsylvania Social Security disability attorneys at Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo today at 888-807-WORK (9675).