Five direct deposit facts

Learn the facts and the myths about direct deposit. Discover how you can make your life easier by switching to direct deposit today.

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Question number one: Do I need a computer or Internet access to use direct deposit?

Fact: No! You can enrol in and use direct deposit without a computer or Internet access. Pick up an enrolment form at your bank or call 1‑800‑593‑1666 to receive one. Once you've enroled, you can continue to bank as you normally would: in person, at an ATM, online or over the phone.

Question number two: Does direct deposit allow the government to take money from my bank account?

Fact: No! When you enrol in direct deposit, you don't authorize the government (or anyone else) to withdraw money from your bank account. The information can only be used to deposit money into your account.

Question number three: Will direct deposit still allow me to go to the bank?

Fact: Yes! After you've enroled in direct deposit, you can still visit your bank to withdraw cash, check your balance, pay your bills, etc. The only thing you'll no longer need to do is deposit your Government of Canada cheque. It will already be in your bank account!

Question number four: Does using direct deposit mean the government can monitor my bank account?

Fact: No! By enroling in direct deposit, you don't give the government permission to monitor your bank account. The information you provide for direct deposit is protected under the Privacy Act and access to your account is protected by your agreement with your bank.

Question number five: Without receiving a cheque, will I know that I have received a payment?

Fact: Yes! Switching to direct deposit will not change your payment schedule. Your money will be deposited into your account on the same day that your cheque would be cashable. You can also check your account balance at any time at the bank, at an ATM, online or over the phone.

If you're part of the minority of Canadians who still receive paper cheques from the government, you're missing out on the chance to make your life a lot easier in only a few steps.

Enrol in direct deposit now!

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