Why Did I Get Mail from Cardholder Services?

If you received mail from "Cardholder Services," especially from an entity like "Money Network Cardholder Services," it is highly likely that it contains your Coronavirus stimulus payment, also known as an Economic Impact Payment.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government distributed Economic Impact Payments to citizens to provide financial relief. While many received these payments via direct deposit or paper checks, a significant portion was sent out in the form of prepaid debit cards. These cards were issued as an alternative to paper checks for faster and more efficient distribution of funds.

Why You Might Mistake It for Junk Mail

Many people initially discard these envelopes, confusing them with typical junk mail or scam offers. This is often because:

• The envelope might not prominently feature government logos.
• The sender name ("Cardholder Services" or "Money Network Cardholder Services") doesn't immediately indicate a government payment.
• The appearance can sometimes resemble credit card offers or marketing materials.

However, these are legitimate payments, and the card inside holds your allocated stimulus funds.

What to Do If You Receive This Mail

It's crucial not to throw away any mail from "Cardholder Services" without thoroughly inspecting it.

• Open and Examine: Carefully open the envelope and look for a prepaid debit card. It will typically be accompanied by instructions on how to activate and use the card.
• Verify Legitimacy: The card will usually be issued by a reputable financial institution on behalf of the U.S. Treasury. Look for official government seals or Treasury markings on the accompanying documents. For more details on these payments and how they were distributed, you can consult official government resources or financial news outlets, such as the Treasury's official statements.
• Activate Your Card: Follow the activation instructions provided with the card. You may need to call a toll-free number or visit a specific website to activate it and set up a PIN.
• Use Your Funds: Once activated, you can use the card like any debit card for purchases or withdraw cash from ATMs.

Recognizing mail from "Cardholder Services" as a potential Economic Impact Payment can save you from accidentally discarding your government-provided financial assistance.