Social Security goes plastic Prepaid debit card touted as way to save money, aid recipients

from AARP Bulletin Sep. 9, 2008 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- A new prepaid debit card could drastically reduce the number of paper Social Security checks mailed each month, therefore saving trees and putting more crooks out of business, treasury officials say. The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Management Service has introduced its Direct Express Debit Master-Card program to Social Security and supplemental security income recipients across Arizona and the nation. It is a new option for federal beneficiaries who do not have a bank account and are looking for a no-cost or low-cost alternative to using check-cashing facilities and carrying large amounts of cash. Seniors can sign up for the card by calling (877) 212-9991 or visiting www.usdirectexpress.com.