Mayor A.J. Holloway is joining the Treasury Department and other agencies in encouraging residents to sign up for direct deposit to ensure uninterrupted access to Social Security payments or other funds, a service particularly useful in hurricane-prone areas.
The Treasury and Federal Reserve Banks are promoting “Go Direct,” a campaign where recipients of federal aid can call the Go Direct helpline at (800) 333-1795, sign up online at www.GoDirect.org, or visit their local bank, credit union or Social Security Administration office.
In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the Treasury worked with the Social Security Administration to deliver Social Security and other federal payments to displaced recipients as quickly as possible. However, those already using direct deposit had immediate access to their funds from virtually anywhere, thanks to ATMs and financial institution networks.
“Using direct deposit means that your check will be automatically transmitted to your financial institution in a timely manner,” Holloway said. “It also eliminates the risk of lost, stolen or forged checks. Direct deposit is a good thing for everyone to use, particularly those who live in areas prone to hurricanes or other factors that could cause an interruption of mail service. The fact is, direct deposit should be a part of everyone’s storm preparedness plan.”
More info on direct deposit
“Go Direct” has established web sites at www.GoDirect.org (English) and www.DirectoASuCuenta.org (Spanish), where people and organizations can learn more about the campaign and the benefits of direct deposit, as well as sign up online for direct deposit of federal benefits.
The campaign also has toll-free numbers to help people sign up for direct deposit right over the telephone: (800) 333-1795 (English) and (800) 333-1792 (Spanish).
