What if I don't have a bank account at all?
Then you must open an account before you can sign up for Direct Deposit. You should shop around in your area to find an account that has the features you want at a price you can afford.
I see. And what is this direct express card I've read about?
The Direct Express card is a debit card you can use to access your benefits. And you don't need a bank account. We deposit your federal benefit payment directly into your card account.