N
The Daily Insight Hub

Can debt collectors take money from Direct Express?

Author

Matthew Harrington

Updated on January 26, 2026

If your benefits are loaded onto a Direct Express card or into another prepaid account, they are automatically protected from garnishment just like money in a checking account. government debts such as back taxes or federal student loans, and debts for child or spousal support.

Can debt collectors take money from your bank account?

What is a creditor’s account levy? A bank account levy allows a creditor to legally take funds from your bank account. When a bank gets notification of this legal action, it will freeze your account and send the appropriate funds to your creditor. In turn, your creditor uses the funds to pay down the debt you owe.

Can you transfer money from Direct Express to bank account?

Yes. You may transfer funds from your Direct Express® card account to a personal U.S. bank account. A fee of $1.50 will be deducted from your Direct Express® card account for each transfer made. Please refer to your Terms of Use for additional information about transferring funds to a personal U.S. bank account.

Do you have to have a bank account to use direct express?

You must either have the money deposited directly to a bank or credit union account or get your money each month on a DirectExpress ® prepaid debit card. Even if you have a bank account, you may prefer to get your federal benefits on the Direct Express ® card. No need to cash a check or carry cash.

Is the Direct Express Debit Mastercard issued by Comerica?

You have requested to receive certain federal government benefits by a Direct Express ® Debit Mastercard ® Card (“Card”) issued by Comerica Bank (“us, we”), rather than receiving a check or direct deposit to your checking or savings account. If you do not agree to accept the Card under these Terms, do not activate your Card.

What are the benefits of the direct express card?

Benefits of the Direct Express ® card. No need to have a bank account or carry cash. You get your money on time, every month. No need to worry about checks. Safe & Secure. The Direct Express ® card is very safe. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insures your money up to the maximum that the law allows.

Can a debt collector freeze your bank account?

In the chance that your bank account is frozen because of debt collectors or suspicious activity, your bank account should not be wiped clean of funds. Depending on the state where you live, there are limits to what type of income can be taken from your account.