With Charlie shutting down, many people on SSI and SSDI are looking for a new place to receive their benefits. Not all debit cards are created equal—especially when you need to stay under asset limits and protect your income.
In this article, we'll cover:
- What to look for in a disability-friendly debit card
- Top options for SSI and SSDI recipients
- Features that matter most
- What to avoid
- How to switch from Charlie
1. What to Look for in a Disability-Friendly Card
When choosing a debit card for disability benefits, consider:
No fees: Monthly fees eat into your limited income
Early direct deposit: Get your money faster when you need it
SSI limit awareness: Alerts and tracking to stay under $2,000
Accessibility: Easy-to-use app and customer support
ABLE integration: Connect to tax-advantaged savings
Rep payee support: Proper account titling if needed
2. Top Options for SSI and SSDI Recipients
Here are the best debit card options in 2026:
Purple (Recommended)
- Built specifically for disability benefits
- Early direct deposit up to 4 days
- SSI balance tracking and alerts
- ABLE account integration
- No monthly fees
- Rep payee support
Chime
- Early direct deposit up to 2 days
- No monthly fees
- Large ATM network
- Not disability-specific (no SSI tracking)
Direct Express
- Government-issued option
- No credit check
- Free to receive benefits
- Limited features and poor customer service
Traditional banks
- Physical branch access
- Full banking services
- Often have monthly fees
- No disability-specific features
3. Features That Matter Most
Ranked by importance for SSI/SSDI recipients:
Must-have:
- No monthly maintenance fees
- Direct deposit capability
- Mobile app access
- Debit card for purchases
Very important:
- Early direct deposit
- Low or no ATM fees
- Balance alerts
- Good customer support
Beneficial for SSI:
- Resource limit tracking
- ABLE account connection
- Spending categorization
- Rep payee tools
4. What to Avoid
Stay away from debit cards that:
- Charge monthly fees — These reduce your already limited income
- Have high ATM fees — Look for free in-network ATMs
- Require minimum balances — Incompatible with SSI limits
- Push savings features — Can accidentally push you over $2,000
- Have poor customer service — You need help when issues arise
- Lack mobile access — Hard to monitor your account
5. How to Switch from Charlie
If you're moving from Charlie to a new account:
Step 2: Update your direct deposit with SSA:
- Online at ssa.gov/myaccount
- By calling 1-800-772-1213
- In person at your local SSA office
Step 3: Transfer any remaining Charlie balance
Step 4: Keep Charlie open until deposits redirect (1-2 cycles)
Step 5: Close your Charlie account once transition is complete
Important: Don't wait until the last minute. Start the switch now to ensure no gaps in receiving your benefits.