Deadline approaching seniors with government benefits | News

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (IKFVS)- Time is running out for seniors to switch over to direct deposits in order to receive their federal benefits.

March 1 is the deadline. If they don't switch by then, they will notice a difference in how they get their money.

"This is really and truly a secure, efficient, and easy way to conduct business," Jay Knudtson from First Missouri State Bank said. "Any of their bankers can walk them through that walk very safely."

A representative from the U.S. Department of Treasury says one of the best benefits of this electronic program is the enhanced safety.

It eliminates the risk of stolen checks, helps protect people from financial crime and provides them more control over their money.

"Hopefully, nobody will slip through the cracks as of March 1st," Knudtson said. "If they do, it's not the end of the world. They will still get their money."

If seniors don't switch over, they will receive their money in the form of debit cards.

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