How to check your balance and make transactions without your ReliaCard

You can access your ReliaCard account through the ReliaCard mobile app, the online portal at reliagov.com, or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card (or on your welcome materials if you don't have the card). All three routes let you check your balance, view transaction history, and set up direct deposit or transfers—you do not need the physical card in your hand to do any of this.

The fastest method is usually the mobile app or website, since you get instant results. Phone support takes longer but works if you don't have internet access or prefer speaking to a person. Each method requires you to log in with your PIN or create an online account first.

Key Takeaways

  • The ReliaCard mobile app and reliagov.com let you check your balance and transaction history instantly without the physical card.
  • You can call the customer service number to speak to a representative who can verify your identity and help you access account information by phone.
  • If you have forgotten your PIN, you can reset it through the app, website, or by calling customer service.
  • Direct deposit and bank transfers can be set up online or by phone, so you can move money without ever using the card itself.
  • If your card is lost or stolen, report it immediately through the app, website, or phone to prevent unauthorized use.

Setting up the ReliaCard mobile app

Download the ReliaCard app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and select "Create Account" or "Sign In" depending on whether you already have an online account. You will need your card number, Social Security number, and date of birth to create an account for the first time.

Once you are logged in, the app shows your current balance, recent transactions, and options to transfer money or set up direct deposit. You can also use the app to lock or unlock your card, reset your PIN, and report a lost or stolen card—all without calling anyone.

Using the online portal at reliagov.com

Go to reliagov.com and click "Sign In" at the top of the page. If you don't have an online account yet, select "Create Account" and enter your card number, Social Security number, and date of birth. The website will ask you to create a username and password.

After you log in, you can view your balance, download transaction statements, set up direct deposit, and transfer money to another bank account. The website also has a "Manage Card" section where you can lock your card, change your PIN, or report it lost or stolen. All of these actions take effect immediately.

Calling customer service by phone

The customer service number is printed on the back of your ReliaCard or in your welcome packet. Call that number and follow the prompts to speak to a representative. You will need to verify your identity by providing your Social Security number, date of birth, and PIN (or answer security questions if you don't remember your PIN).

Once verified, a representative can tell you your balance, review recent transactions, help you reset your PIN, set up direct deposit, or report your card lost or stolen. Phone support is available during business hours, which vary by state. If you call outside those hours, you can usually check your balance through an automated system by entering your card number and PIN.

Resetting your PIN if you have forgotten it

If you don't remember your PIN, you can reset it through the mobile app by selecting "Forgot PIN" on the login screen. The app will ask you to verify your identity using your Social Security number and date of birth, then let you create a new PIN. This usually takes a few minutes.

You can also reset your PIN on reliagov.com by clicking "Forgot PIN" on the login page, or by calling customer service and asking a representative to help you reset it over the phone. Once you create a new PIN, it takes effect immediately and you can use it right away at ATMs or to check your balance by phone.

Setting up direct deposit or bank transfers

Direct deposit lets your employer or benefit provider send money straight to your ReliaCard account without you having to do anything after the first setup. To set up direct deposit, log into the mobile app or website, find the "Direct Deposit" or "Add Income" section, and enter your employer's routing number and your ReliaCard account number. Your employer will need this information to start sending deposits.

If you want to move money from your ReliaCard to another bank account you own, log into the app or website and select "Transfer Money" or "Send to Bank Account." Enter the routing number and account number of the bank where you want the money to go, the amount, and when you want it sent. Most transfers take one to three business days to complete.

What to do if your card is lost or stolen

Report a lost or stolen card immediately through the mobile app, the website, or by calling customer service. You can do this 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through the app or website—you don't have to wait for business hours. Once you report the card, it is locked and no one can use it, even if they have the physical card.

After you report it, customer service will mail you a replacement card, which usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can still access your money through direct deposit, bank transfers, or by withdrawing cash at an ATM using your PIN (if you remember it) or by calling customer service to request a temporary PIN.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I withdraw cash from an ATM without my card?

No, you need the physical card to withdraw cash at an ATM. However, you can request a cash advance by calling customer service, and some ReliaCard programs allow you to withdraw cash at retail locations like grocery stores or pharmacies without the card—ask customer service whether this option is available on your account.

What if I don't have internet or a smartphone?

Call the customer service number on your welcome materials or the back of your card. A representative can check your balance, review transactions, help you reset your PIN, and set up direct deposit or transfers over the phone. Phone support is available during business hours, and an automated system is available 24/7 for balance checks.

How do I know if my account has been hacked?

Check your transaction history regularly through the app or website. If you see transactions you didn't make, report them immediately by calling customer service or using the app. Most ReliaCard programs cover unauthorized transactions, so you won't lose money, but you need to report them within a certain timeframe—usually 60 days.

Can I use my ReliaCard online without the physical card?

Yes, if the card is set up for online purchases. You will need the card number, expiration date, and CVV (the three-digit code on the back), which you can find by logging into the app or website. Some retailers may ask for additional verification, like your ZIP code or the name on the account.

What happens if I forget my username and password?

On reliagov.com or the mobile app, select "Forgot Username" or "Forgot Password" and follow the prompts to reset them. You will need to verify your identity using your Social Security number and date of birth. If you can't reset them online, call customer service and a representative can help you regain access to your account.