Waiting for your disability check can be stressful, especially when bills are due. With Purple, you can get your SSI or SSDI benefits up to 4 days early through early direct deposit. Here's how it works.
In this article, we'll cover:
- How early direct deposit works
- Why Purple offers early access
- How to set it up
- Frequently asked questions
How Early Direct Deposit Works
The basics:
- Social Security sends payment files to banks before the official payment date
- Most banks hold your money until the scheduled date
- Purple releases your funds as soon as we receive the file
- This can be up to 4 days before your scheduled payment
Example:
- Your SSDI is scheduled for Wednesday (third Wednesday of the month)
- Social Security sends the payment file on Friday or Saturday
- Purple credits your account as soon as we receive it
- You could have access to your money by Saturday or Sunday
It's your money—why wait?
Why Purple Offers Early Access
We understand fixed-income challenges:
- Bills don't wait for payment day
- Late fees add up quickly
- Running low before payday is stressful
- Every day matters when you're on a tight budget
No tricks or fees:
- Early access is free with Purple
- No interest charges
- No special enrollment required
- Automatic with direct deposit
Built for disability recipients:
- We know SSI and SSDI payment schedules
- We understand the financial pressures you face
- Early access is one way we help
How to Set Up Early Direct Deposit
Step 1: Open a Purple account
- Download the Purple app or visit withpurple.com
- Sign up in minutes
- No minimum balance required
- No credit check
Step 2: Get your account details
- Your Purple routing number
- Your Purple account number
- Available in the app immediately
Step 3: Update your direct deposit with Social Security
Online (fastest):
- Go to ssa.gov/myaccount
- Sign in to your my Social Security account
- Click "Change Direct Deposit"
- Enter your Purple routing and account numbers
- Confirm the change
By phone:
- Call 1-800-772-1213
- Tell them you want to change direct deposit
- Provide your Purple account information
- Verify the change
In person:
- Visit your local Social Security office
- Bring your Purple account information
- Complete the direct deposit form
Step 4: Wait for the switch
- Changes take 1-2 payment cycles
- Keep your old account active until you confirm
- Your first Purple deposit will arrive early!
When Will I Get Paid?
SSI payments:
- Scheduled for the 1st of each month
- With Purple, often available 2-4 days early
- Could arrive as early as the 27th or 28th
SSDI payments (by birth date):
- Born 1st-10th: Second Wednesday → Could arrive Saturday-Sunday before
- Born 11th-20th: Third Wednesday → Could arrive Saturday-Sunday before
- Born 21st-31st: Fourth Wednesday → Could arrive Saturday-Sunday before
Note: Exact early access timing depends on when Social Security sends the payment file. Most customers see their deposits 2-4 days early, but it can vary.
What Else Does Purple Offer?
No fees eating into your benefits:
- No monthly maintenance fees
- No minimum balance
- No overdraft fees
- Free ATM access at 55,000+ locations
Designed for disability recipients:
- Helps you track spending
- Easy-to-understand balance info
- Customer support that gets it
- Tools to help stay under SSI limits
Debit card included:
- Use anywhere Visa is accepted
- Chip and contactless payments
- Mobile wallet compatible
- Instant card lock if lost
Frequently Asked Questions
Is early direct deposit really free? Yes, completely free. No fees, no interest, no catches. It's just one of the benefits of banking with Purple.
Will getting paid early affect my benefits? No. Early direct deposit doesn't change your benefit amount or eligibility. You're getting the same money, just sooner.
How early will I actually get paid? Most customers receive funds 2-4 days early. The exact timing depends on when Social Security sends the payment file, which can vary slightly.
What if I have both SSI and SSDI? Both can be deposited to your Purple account. You'll get early access to both payments.
Can I split my deposit between accounts? Social Security allows direct deposit to one account. But once funds are in Purple, you can transfer money wherever you need it.
Is Purple a real bank? Purple partners with an FDIC-insured bank, so your money is protected up to $250,000. You get all the security of traditional banking with features designed for you.
Ready to Get Paid Early?
Stop waiting for your benefits when you don't have to. With Purple:
- Get your SSI or SSDI up to 4 days early
- No fees on your disability benefits
- Banking designed for people like you
- Sign up in minutes
Download Purple today and start getting your benefits when you need them—not when the calendar says so.