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AG: Some stimulus payments coming as Visa debit cards

Skeptical after getting what appears to be a Visa debit card in the mail? Take a good look before tossing it as a fake or junk — this time, it could be legit.

Some residents are receiving their $600 stimulus payments in the form of a prepaid Visa debit card — and it’s not a scam, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel advised as the federal government disburses more second round payments.

“As many Americans await their second stimulus payment, it’s important to keep in mind that such payment may be disbursed in three different ways — direct deposit, paper check or prepaid debit card,” Nessel said. “Mailed stimulus payments will arrive in a white envelope with the U.S. Department of Treasury seal. Michiganders screening their mail for scam offers should watch for that to ensure their stimulus funds are not accidentally discarded.”

The preloaded Visa debit card displays the Visa logo on the front and the issuing bank name — MetaBank, N.A. — on the back. Each mailing also will include instructions on how to activate and use the card.

Those who receive their stimulus payment via prepaid debit card can make purchases online or in-store wherever Visa debit cards are accepted. Recipients also have the option to transfer funds to a personal bank account and check their card balance online via mobile app or phone. The debit card provided by the federal government also includes certain protections against fraud, loss and other errors.

For additional information on how to use the preloaded Visa debit card or to confirm the status of a stimulus payment, go to the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment.

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