Yes, you can transfer money from a ReliaCard to a bank account, but the method depends on which ReliaCard program you have
ReliaCard is a prepaid debit card issued by several state and federal benefit programs—most commonly TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), unemployment insurance, and workers' compensation. The card itself holds your benefit funds, but you are not locked into using it. You can move money to your own bank account through a few different routes, though not all work the same way.
The fastest and most direct method is an ATM withdrawal: you withdraw cash and deposit it at your bank. This works immediately but costs you time and sometimes a fee. The second method is a direct transfer from ReliaCard to your bank, which some programs allow through their online portal or customer service line. The third is using your ReliaCard as a regular debit card to pay bills or make purchases, which keeps money in motion without a formal transfer. Which one works for you depends on your specific program and your bank's policies.
Key Takeaways
- ReliaCard is a prepaid card for state benefits, not a savings account, so you control when and how to move the money out.
- ATM withdrawal is the simplest method: take cash out and deposit it at your bank, though some ATMs charge a fee.
- Some ReliaCard programs allow direct bank transfers through their online portal or by calling customer service, which avoids the cash step.
- Check your specific program's rules—TANF, unemployment, and workers' compensation each have slightly different transfer options.
- Your bank may charge a deposit fee or require a minimum deposit amount, so confirm their rules before you start.
Withdrawing cash and depositing it at your bank
This is the most straightforward path. You use your ReliaCard at any ATM—including your bank's ATM—to withdraw cash, then deposit that cash at your bank's teller window or ATM. The money appears in your account within one business day if you deposit before your bank's cutoff time, or the next business day if you deposit after hours.
The catch is fees. Some ATMs charge $2 to $3 per withdrawal if you use an out-of-network machine. Your bank may also charge a deposit fee, though most do not charge to deposit your own cash. If you withdraw small amounts multiple times, the fees add up. If you withdraw once a month in a lump sum, you pay the fee once.
Check whether your bank has a branch near you or near places you already go—grocery stores, pharmacies, and some retailers have ATMs that may be in-network with your bank and free to use.
Transferring directly from ReliaCard to your bank account
Some ReliaCard programs let you link your bank account and transfer money electronically without touching cash. This is faster and cheaper than the ATM route. To do this, you typically log into your ReliaCard online portal (or call the customer service number on the back of your card) and add your bank account details—your routing number and account number.
Once your bank account is linked, you can initiate a transfer. The money usually moves within one to three business days, depending on your bank and the ReliaCard program. There is typically no fee for this transfer, though your bank might charge a deposit fee (rare) or require a minimum deposit amount.
Not all ReliaCard programs offer this feature. TANF cards, unemployment cards, and workers' compensation cards have different rules. Call the number on your card or log into your account to see if the transfer option is available to you. If it is not, the ATM withdrawal method is your next best option.
Using your ReliaCard to pay bills or make purchases instead
You do not have to move the money to your bank at all. You can use your ReliaCard like a regular debit card to pay bills online, in stores, or over the phone. This keeps your benefit funds accessible without a formal transfer. Many people use this method for everyday expenses and only move money to their bank account when they need to pay something the card cannot handle—like a check or a wire transfer.
The downside is that your money stays on the ReliaCard, which may have monthly maintenance fees (typically $1 to $3) or inactivity fees if you do not use it for a long time. Your bank account, by contrast, may be free or have lower fees. If you are not using the card regularly, moving the money to your bank can save you money over time.
What happens if your ReliaCard program does not allow transfers
Some older or state-specific ReliaCard programs do not have an online portal or direct transfer option. In that case, ATM withdrawal is your only path. Call the customer service number on your card to confirm whether direct transfers are available. If they are not, ask whether there are any free ATM networks you can use to avoid fees.
If you are on a very limited program with few options, consider whether you actually need to move the money. If you can use the ReliaCard for most of your spending, you may not need a bank transfer at all. The card is designed to work as your primary account for benefit funds.
Timing and what to expect
ATM withdrawals are instant—you get cash immediately. Deposits at your bank take one business day if you deposit before the cutoff (usually 2 p.m. on weekdays), or the next business day if you deposit after hours or on weekends.
Direct transfers from ReliaCard to your bank account take one to three business days. The exact timeline depends on your bank and the ReliaCard program. Weekends and federal holidays do not count as business days, so a transfer initiated on Friday may not arrive until Tuesday.
If you need the money urgently, ATM withdrawal is faster. If you can wait a few days, a direct transfer is cheaper and safer because you avoid carrying cash.
Fees and costs to watch for
ReliaCard programs themselves typically do not charge a fee for transfers or withdrawals, but third parties might. Out-of-network ATM fees range from $2 to $3 per transaction. Some banks charge a deposit fee for cash deposits, though this is uncommon. Your bank may also charge monthly maintenance fees on your account, which vary by bank and account type.
To minimize costs, use your bank's ATM network for free withdrawals, deposit in lump sums rather than multiple small amounts, and ask your bank whether they offer a free checking account with no monthly fees. Many banks do, especially if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer money from ReliaCard to someone else's bank account?
No, you cannot transfer directly from ReliaCard to another person's account. You can withdraw cash and give it to them, or you can transfer to your own bank account and then send money from there using your bank's transfer tools or a service like Venmo or PayPal.
What if my bank account is closed or I do not have a bank account?
You can still use your ReliaCard as your primary account. You can withdraw cash at ATMs and use the card to pay bills and make purchases. If you want to open a bank account, many banks offer free checking accounts with no minimum balance. Ask your bank about their options.
Does transferring money from ReliaCard to my bank affect my benefits?
No. Moving money from your ReliaCard to your bank account does not change your benefit amount or your may be able to access. The money is yours to use as you see fit. However, if you are on a means-tested program, keeping large amounts in a savings account may affect your may be able to access in the future—check your program's rules about asset limits.
How long does a direct transfer from ReliaCard to my bank take?
Direct transfers typically take one to three business days, depending on your bank and the ReliaCard program. Weekends and holidays do not count as business days. If you need the money faster, withdraw cash at an ATM and deposit it at your bank for next-business-day availability.
Can I set up automatic transfers from ReliaCard to my bank?
Some ReliaCard programs allow recurring transfers through their online portal, but not all. Log into your account or call customer service to see if this option is available. If it is, you can set up a monthly transfer to move your entire benefit to your bank automatically.