How Do I Switch from Direct Express to a New Bank?

Move your SSI or SSDI safely—and get paid faster with Purple

Introduction: Ready to Leave Direct Express? Here’s How to Switch

Many people receiving SSI or SSDI benefits use the Direct Express® card to get their payments—but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with it.

You might be wondering:

💳 “Can I switch from Direct Express to a bank account?”

📅 “How long does it take?”

⚠️ “Will it delay my check?”

The good news is:

✅ Yes—you can switch at any time, and thanks to new SSA rules, your direct deposit can now update in just 1 business day.

In this post, we’ll walk you through:

✅ How to move your benefits from Direct Express to a new account

✅ What to expect during the process

✅ How Purple makes switching easy—and gets you paid faster

1. What Is Direct Express?

Direct Express is a prepaid debit card issued by Comerica Bank under a contract with the U.S. Treasury. It’s used to deliver:

SSI
SSDI
VA benefits
SSA retirement payments

It’s often used by people without a traditional bank account—but it has limitations:

❌ No early direct deposit

❌ Limited mobile features

❌ Long customer service wait times

❌ No tools to help manage your SSI asset limit

2. Can I Switch to a Bank or Fintech Account Instead?

✅ Yes—SSA allows you to receive your benefits by direct deposit to any account in your name.

That includes:

Traditional bank accounts
Online accounts like Purple
Accounts linked to an ABLE account (for SSI recipients)

📌 SSA will never force you to stay with Direct Express.

3. How to Switch from Direct Express to Purple (or Any Bank Account)

Step 1: Open Your New Account

You’ll get:

Your new account number
Your new routing number
Access to smart tools designed for people on disability benefits

Step 2: Update Your Direct Deposit Info with SSA

You have 3 ways to do this:

🖥️ Option 1: Online

Visit ssa.gov/myaccount
Log in or create an account
Go to “Direct Deposit” and enter your new account info

☎️ Option 2: Phone

Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213
Let them know you want to update your direct deposit
Be ready to verify your identity and share your new account info

🏢 Option 3: In Person

Visit your local SSA office
Bring a bank letter or voided check for verification

Step 3: Wait for the Switch to Process

As of April 14, 2025, SSA processes direct deposit updates within 1 business day after your identity is verified.

That means you could receive your next check directly into Purple without delay.

💡 We recommend keeping your Direct Express card active until your first check arrives in your new account—just in case.

4. Why People Are Switching to Purple

Purple is designed specifically for people receiving SSI, SSDI, and other disability-related benefits.

Here’s what makes it different:

💜 Get Paid Up to 4 Days Early - Take advantage of SSA’s faster deposit system and get access to your check before the 1st or 3rd.

💜 Balance & Deposit Tracking - See exactly how much you’ve received—and when it hit.

💜 Stay Under the $2,000 SSI LimitGet real-time alerts when your balance is getting close to the cap.

💜 Tag & Separate Income - Track SSI, SSDI, VA, gig work, and other deposits separately for easy reporting.

💜 Companion AI Support - Ask: “Has my SSA payment arrived?” or “Did my deposit switch go through?”

FAQs About Leaving Direct Express

⚠️ Will switching delay my payment?

Not anymore—SSA now processes deposit changes in 1 business day after identity is verified.

⚠️ Will SSA notify me when the switch is complete?

You’ll usually receive a confirmation by mail or through your my Social Security account.

⚠️ Can I use Purple if I’m on SSI?

Yes—Purple is built for SSI. It helps you stay under the $2,000 asset limit, manage deposits, and avoid overpayments.

⚠️ Can I go back to Direct Express later?

Yes, but most people don’t. Purple offers better tools, faster access to your money, and real customer support.

Conclusion: You Can Switch from Direct Express—And It’s Easier Than Ever

✅ You’re allowed to move your benefits to any account you control

✅ SSA will update your direct deposit in 1 business day

✅ Purple helps you track payments, manage your balance, and get paid faster

💜 Switch to Purple today and take control of your benefits—no more waiting on Direct Express.