The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that the Direct Express (DE) program is transitioning its financial agent from Comerica Bank to Fifth Third Bank, following a competitive selection process by the Department of the Treasury’s Bureau of Fiscal Service. Starting May 18, 2026, all new enrollment requests for the DE card will be processed by Fifth Third Bank.
This transition will occur in phases to minimize customer impact, with communication planned for mid-2026. There are no immediate changes for existing DE customers, and current SSA processes will remain unchanged until further notice. Fifth Third Bank has acquired and merged with Comerica Bank, and will honor existing program terms.
For beneficiaries enrolling a second entitlement, new benefits will be issued on a Fifth Third-branded card, separate from any existing Comerica card. Customers can later consolidate benefits by contacting Treasury's Electronic Payment Solution Center. Existing cardholders will receive advance communication before any direct impact or card replacement, and are advised to keep their contact information updated with Comerica.
Customers can opt out of the DE card program by directing their benefit payments to a traditional bank account via direct deposit. Cancellation requests can be made through the SSA via telephone, in person, or through their bank if it offers the Automated Enrollment process. The SSA also reminded staff to always obtain customer consent before enrollment and to refer card issues to DE customer service.