How to Switch Direct Deposit from Charlie to Another Bank Account

With Charlie shutting down, it's time to move your direct deposit to a new account. The good news: switching is straightforward if you follow the right steps.

In this article, we'll cover:

1. Why you need to switch now
2. Choosing your new account
3. Step-by-step switching process
4. Timing your transition
5. What to do after the switch

1. Why You Need to Switch Now

When Charlie closes, deposits sent to that account won't have anywhere to go. If you don't update your direct deposit information in time:

• Your payment could be returned to SSA
• You may experience delays getting your money
• You might temporarily receive a paper check (if still available)
• You could miss bill payments

Don't wait until the last minute. Start the switch now to ensure a smooth transition.

2. Choosing Your New Account

Before switching, decide where you want your deposits to go. Consider:

For Social Security and SSDI:

• Any bank or credit union
• Online banks like Purple, Chime, or others
• Direct Express (government prepaid card)

For SSI specifically:

• Choose an account that helps with the $2,000 limit
• Look for balance tracking and alerts
• Consider ABLE account integration
• Purple is built specifically for SSI recipients

Important: If you're on SSI, choose carefully. The wrong account could cause you to accidentally exceed the resource limit.

3. Step-by-Step Switching Process

Step 1: Open your new account

Open your new bank account first. You'll need:

• Your routing number (9 digits)
• Your account number
• The bank's name and address

With Purple, you can open an account online in minutes.

Step 2: Update your direct deposit with SSA

You have three options:

Online (fastest):

1. Go to ssa.gov/myaccount
2. Sign in to your my Social Security account
3. Select "Change Direct Deposit"
4. Enter your new bank information
5. Confirm and submit

By phone:

1. Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213
2. Hours: 8am-7pm local time
3. TTY: 1-800-325-0778
4. Provide your new account information

In person:

1. Visit your local Social Security office
2. Bring your new bank information and ID
3. Complete the change with a representative

Step 3: Confirm the change

After submitting, SSA will process your request. The change typically takes 1-2 payment cycles.

4. Timing Your Transition

Ideal timeline:

• Start at least 30-60 days before Charlie closes
• Allow time for SSA to process the change
• Keep Charlie open until you confirm deposits are redirected

Key tips:

• Don't close Charlie until your first deposit arrives at your new bank
• Watch for your next payment date
• Check both accounts during the transition period

Important: If you close your Charlie account before the switch completes, your deposit could be returned and delayed.

5. What to Do After the Switch

Once your deposits are going to your new account:

Close your Charlie account:

• Transfer any remaining balance
• Confirm all pending transactions are complete
• Follow Charlie's account closure process

Update any automatic payments:

• Bill pay services
• Subscriptions
• Any other automatic withdrawals

Set up your new account:

• Download the mobile app
• Set up alerts and notifications
• Review available features
• Connect ABLE account if applicable

Switching to Purple

If you're switching to Purple, here's what you'll get:

• Early direct deposit: Receive your benefits up to 4 days sooner
• SSI limit tracking: Alerts when approaching $2,000
• No fees: $0 monthly fee, $0 overdraft fee
• ABLE integration: Save beyond limits safely
• Easy setup: Open your account in minutes