31 U.S.C. 3332 generally requires all federal payments, other than payments under the Internal Revenue Code, be delivered by Direct Deposit also known as Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), unless a waiver is available.
So, recipients of federal payments must receive payment by direct deposit to an account at the recipient’s financial institution or by an electronically delivered payment to a Treasury-sponsored account, or obtain a waiver under Fiscal Service’s regulation at 31 CFR Part 208.
Payment by direct deposit (EFT) is safe, secure, efficient, and less expensive than payment by paper check.
Electronic payments are required! All federal benefit payments must now be paid electronically.
If you get your federal benefit payment by check, you may enroll in direct deposit using the Godirect.gov website. You may also call the U.S. Treasury Electronic Payment Solution Center at (877) 874-6347 to enroll in direct deposit or the Direct Express card
If you do not have a bank account, the FDIC’s #GetBanked website offers information to help you open an account online or at a local financial institution.
Sign upBenefits of Direct Deposit (EFT)
Safe and Secure
Efficient
Less expensive
News and Updates
Updated EFT Rule at 31 CFR Part 208 (Effective 3/22/2024)
Get Your Tax Refund Faster by Using Direct Deposit
Social Security Administration Blogs about Direct Deposit
Resources
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Last modified 02/21/24
