While most people will get a direct deposit for the most recent round of COVID-19 relief payments, you may get a debit card in the mail instead. This money can be used as a debit card, or you can transfer it into your bank account. These EIP cards are sponsored by the Department of the Treasury’s Bureau of the Fiscal Service, managed by Money Network Financial, LLC and issued by Treasury’s financial agent, MetaBank®, N.A.
**There is a phone number you will need to call to activate the debit card once you receive it. The card will not work until you activate it.
The EIP Cards being issued for the second payments are sent in a plain white envelope which prominently displays the U.S. Treasury seal and “Economic Impact Payment Card” in the return address. The envelope will also have the following notation: “Not a bill or an advertisement. Important information about your Economic Impact Payment.”
The Visa name is on the front of the Card and the issuing bank, MetaBank®, N.A. on the back of the card. Information included with the card will explain that this is your Economic Impact Payment. If you receive an Economic Impact Payment Card, visit EIPcard.com for more information.
You can also find more information and FAQ’s on the IRS website here: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/economic-impact-payment-information-center-topic-e-eip-cards