How to Move Your Direct Deposit from Charlie to a New Account
- Purple
- 24 minutes ago
- 2 min read
If you were using the Charlie app to receive Social Security, SSI, or SSDI payments, you’ll need to act quickly to make sure your next deposit lands safely.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to moving your direct deposit to a new account — including what to expect and how to avoid payment delays.
1. Choose a New Account That Works with Benefits
Not every bank account is designed for government benefits like SSI or SSDI. Before you make the switch, choose an account that:
Accepts SSA, SSI, or SSDI direct deposit
Doesn’t charge hidden fees
Helps you track balances (especially for SSI’s $2,000 asset limit)
Gives you early access to your deposit¹
Supports online access, paperless statements, and human support
🟣 Purple is one option built specifically for people on disability or fixed income. You can open an account in minutes and get set up with direct deposit tools.
2. Update Your Direct Deposit with Social Security
There are two ways to move your payment to a new account:
✅ Option 1: Use Your
my Social Security
Account
Go to ssa.gov/myaccount
Log in or create your account
Select “Direct Deposit” from the menu
Enter your new account and routing numbers
Save and confirm your changes
Updates typically take effect within 1 to 2 payments.
☎️ Option 2: Call Social Security
If you prefer to update over the phone, call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Be ready with:
Your new account number
The bank’s routing number
Your full name and Social Security number
3. Double-Check When Your Change Will Happen
SSA recommends making direct deposit changes at least 30 days in advance of your next scheduled payment.
In practice, changes made online often take 1–2 weeks, but that depends on the timing of your submission.
You can track your payment history and upcoming schedule in your my Social Security account.
4. Set Up Alerts & Monitor Your Balance
Once you’ve switched, make sure your new account:
Sends deposit notifications
Lets you check your balance easily
Shows your transaction history
Purple, for example, shows a projected payday timeline and lets you store receipts or SSA documents securely — helpful if you ever need to prove benefit use.
5. Don’t Close the Old Account Right Away
After updating your deposit, wait until your next payment arrives in the new account before closing your Charlie account. This ensures there’s no disruption or returned deposit.
Ready to Switch to Purple?
You can open an account built for SSI and SSDI in minutes. Purple gives you:
Early direct deposit (up to 4 days)¹
Support for SSA benefits
Spending tools and account history
No monthly fees
Live human support when you need it
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC. The Purple Mastercard® Debit Card is issued by OMB Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to license from Mastercard.
¹ Early access is not guaranteed and depends on payer timing. We generally make funds available on the day we receive the payment file, which may be up to 4 days early for government benefits like SSI or SSDI, and up to 2 days early for other deposits. Early access is available at no additional cost.