In late January I applied for the Social Security Direct Express Card. It seemed like a good idea. I use online banking and credit cards fluently and have lots of protective devices and tricks to keep safe on line, but I did not see this one coming.
The card is mailed like any debit or credit card. That is safe because after you receive it, you must call to "activate" it. This is a quote from the Social Security Direct Express website:
"You may start using your card as soon as you activate your card and receive your deposit to your card account (generally within 1 or 2 months from when your account is "ACTIVE")."
Now here is my complaint.
Comerica Bank/Direct Express received my social security benefits just days after I was enrolled in the program and weeks before I got my card in the mail. That left me with no money. None, for I do not know how long. Emails and calls to Social Security and Direct Express met with callused kids who suggest that I report the card missing. That would only lead to further delays. One stated that the changing of your direct deposit back to your Bank of Hawaii account will take 30 days. Another stated that they "don't have alot of money."
From my point of view the problem is with the lie that it will take "1 or 2 months" to get the direct deposit going to my Direct Express Card. I expected that to happen. As I see it, the problem can be easily fixed by Social Security/Direct Express/Comerica Bank (whatever that is). They need to do a bank transfer of my money back to my existing Bank of Hawaii account.
It is their mistake/lie. So they should be sympathetic and pay the transfer fee and try to understand my dilemma. I have no money! I am 65 years old and have no family. I cannot eat! And what bills I have, will go unpaid this month. Social Security has ruined my life. I am contacting the US Embassy today.
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