Information for the UI Debit Card Program
Using Your Card
Fees
Benefits
Customer Service
Q. What is the State of New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development Prepaid Debit Card?
A. The State of New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development now issues Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits through a prepaid debit card. The debit card is a Visa®-branded card account, which allows direct deposit of UI benefit payments to those who do not have a traditional bank account or who do not want their payment deposited into their existing bank account. There is no credit check required.
The deposit account is Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)-insured and follows all Regulation E requirements for consumer protection. The account owner has access to their funds 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via purchases everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted, ATMs and pinned Point-Of-Sale (POS) terminals, as well as over-the-counter cash access through tellers at any Visa bank or credit union location.
Q. Why am I receiving a debit card for my Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits?
A. The only methods of payment for UI benefits in the State of New Jersey are either direct deposit or debit card. If you have not provided an account for direct deposit, you will automatically be sent a prepaid debit card. You can elect to sign up for direct deposit online at www.njuifile.net.
Q. What are the benefits of having a debit card?
A. Benefits are:
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Q. Can I get a paper check instead of a debit card?
A. The New Jersey Division of UI no longer issues paper checks. If you do not want to receive your benefits on a debit card, you can elect to sign up for direct deposit by visiting www.njuifile.net.
Q. When will I receive my debit card?
A. You will receive a package, which includes your prepaid debit card, within five (5) to seven (7) days after you file a claim.
Q. What will I receive in my debit card package?
A. The following items are in your card package:
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Q. What if I do not receive my debit card package in the mail?
A. If you do not receive your debit card package in the mail within ten (10) days after filing your UI claim, you must contact Bank of America customer service toll-free at 1-866-213-4074.
Q. Why does my name appear on the card?
A. Your name appears on the card because the debit card is issued to you alone and all UI benefits you certify for will be loaded onto this debit card for your use.
Q. Do I have to activate my card before I can use it?
A. Yes. You must visit Online customer service at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay or call Bank of America customer service toll-free at 1-866-213-4074 to activate your card before you can use it.
Q. What time of day can I make withdrawals or purchases with my card?
A. After funds are posted, you can access your money by making purchases or withdrawing funds 24 hours a day. Your benefits are normally available 48 hours after you certify for benefits. Your money is available by 9:00 a.m. on the day the funds are posted to your debit card account.
Q. When can I use my debit card for the first time?
A. You may use the card 48 hours after you certify for benefits for the first time when the funds are loaded on the card.
Q. Can the State of New Jersey view or track my transactions?
A. No. For privacy reasons, the State of New Jersey is not permitted to look at specific card account numbers or transaction details. Only Bank of America customer service representatives may look at your account history with you.
Q. Can using the debit card build my credit history or hurt my credit rating?
A. No. The debit card does not help establish credit history since this is not a credit card. No credit check is required to receive the card and it is not tied to a bank account or credit line. In addition, it cannot hurt your credit rating as you can only spend the amount of money that is stored on the card. You will not be able to purchase any item(s) or service(s) with the card if you do not have the funds in your debit card account to cover the cost of them.
Q. Can I get a debit card from another provider?
A.Yes you can get a debit card from another provider; however, you should be aware that other debit cards may charge fees that may not be as attractive as the fee structure offered through New Jersey.
Q. Can I request a second debit card for another individual or can I have a joint account?
A. No. All debit card accounts are issued in your name only, similar to how your UI benefits are issued.
Q. How do I make a Point-Of-Sale (POS) transaction?
A. A Point-Of-Sale (POS) transaction is when you use your debit card to pay for your purchase when you are checking out, similar to a credit card transaction. When you use your debit card to pay for items you are purchasing, you can choose the debit card option and enter your PIN number to complete the transaction. You also have the option of choosing credit and the cashier will require you to sign a receipt for your purchase.
Q. Can I get cash at a Point-Of-Sale (POS) location?
A. Yes you can get cash back with a pinned POS transaction using your PIN. Many merchants like grocery and convenience stores offer the ability to take up to a certain amount in cash back with a pinned POS purchase. The amounts can vary by merchant, but are usually disbursed in amounts of $20, $40, $50 or $100.
Q. Can I get my benefits in cash from a bank teller?
A. Yes you may perform an over-the-counter Cash Access transaction at any Visa bank or credit union, including Bank of America locations. The Visa logo guarantees that you can withdraw funds from your Visa®-branded debit card account at Visa financial institutions. You must simply:
| 1. | Ask the teller for a "Visa Manual Cash Disbursement." |
| 2. | Present your card and say how much you want from your available balance. The teller will not charge you a fee for this service. |
| 3. | Take your card, cash and receipt. |
Q. Can I use my debit card at any bank or does it have to be a Bank of America location?
A. Yes you may withdraw cash with no fee at the teller window of any Visa bank or credit union. Financial institutions generally display the Visa logo upon entering the location. Remember, banking centers may only assist with over-the-counter Cash Access transactions. Any questions about your account should be directed to the Bank of America customer service website and phone numbers on the back of your card.
Q. How can I locate the nearest Bank of America ATM to where I live?
A. You can locate the nearest Bank of America ATM by using the Bank of America Online customer service website at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay and click the Bank of America ATM locator logo on the left side of the web page.
Q. What if there is no Bank of America branch where I live?
A. You may use your card everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted for purchases, including cash-back transactions at POS locations, at Visa Plus ATMs, as well as at any Visa bank or credit union for over-the-counter cash access.
Q. Can I transfer funds from my debit card to my checking or savings account?
A. Yes. You may transfer some or all of your benefits to your checking or savings account at any U.S. financial institution by performing an Online Funds Transfer via the customer service website at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay. To begin the process you will simply register your accounts online, sign on the customer service website and select the "Transfer Funds" link within your online Account Summary page.
Q. How do I get cash if I lose my debit card and I have not received my replacement card yet?
A. You may perform an Emergency Cash Transfer through Bank of America customer service at 1-866-213-4074 for pick up at Western Union locations (fees apply).
Q. When using an ATM to withdraw funds which selection (checking, savings or credit) do I choose?
A. When you withdraw funds from an ATM using your debit card, you are first required to enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Once you have successfully entered your PIN, the ATM will require you to choose a transaction (in this instance it would be a Withdrawal). After you select the Withdrawal option, the ATM will ask you what account you would like to use (checking, savings or credit). You must select checking to use this debit card.
Q. Will I be able to add other funds to my debit card?
A. No. Only the State of New Jersey Division of UI may deposit funds into your debit card account.
Q. Will I earn interest on the funds in my debit card account?
A. No. This debit card account does not accrue any type of interest.
Q. What is the difference between an ATM transaction fee and an ATM surcharge or convenience fee?
A. Bank of America charges ATM withdrawal transaction fees for using the debit card at ATMs outside the Bank of America ATM network. You are allowed two free (no transaction fee) domestic withdrawals per month at non-Bank of America ATMs. There will be a fee of $1.00 for each additional withdrawal at ATMs outside the Bank of America network.
A surcharge or convenience fee is a fee imposed by the owner of the ATM if it is not a Bank of America ATM. Most ATM owners outside the Bank of America network will charge a fee for the use of their machine. These fees will vary but are displayed prior to you accepting or agreeing to the transaction. You can cancel your transaction before incurring any additional fees. You should always read all ATM messages carefully.
Q. When are transaction fees charged?
A. Transaction fees are charged as they occur. Please refer to your complete Schedule of Bank Fees in your deposit agreement to ensure you understand any transaction and service fees that may apply to your card.
Q. How do I avoid paying fees/charges?
A. Fees can be avoided with careful use of your card. There are no fees for the following:
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Q. How do I know if my ATM is charging me a surcharge or convenience fee?
A. Read all of the ATM messages carefully. You will not be charged a surcharge or convenience fee unless you agree to it. You may cancel a transaction to avoid surcharge or convenience fees. You are only charged when you press “Enter” and continue with your transaction.
Q. How many free ATM withdrawals do I get per month?
A. You have an unlimited number of free withdrawals with no fee at any domestic Bank of America ATM. You receive two free withdrawals per month at non-Bank of America domestic ATMs, although you may still be assessed an ATM surcharge or convenience fee by the ATM owner.
For any withdrawals made at ATMs other than Bank of America beyond the two free monthly withdrawals, you are charged $1.00 by Bank of America and whatever additional surcharge or convenience fee you agree to accept from the ATM owner.
Q. Is there a fee to activate my debit card?
A. There is no fee to activate your debit card.
Q. Is there a fee to use my debit card?
A. There are no fees when you use your card for a purchase at a merchant. Many grocery or convenience stores also offer cash back, without a fee, with a purchase. You can get cash from ATMs and tellers at banks and credit unions that accept Visa cards; however, ATM fees may apply.
Q. Is there a fee to check my account balance?
A. You can check your account balance free of charge by going to Bank of America Online customer service at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay, calling Bank of America customer service at 1-866-213-4074 or at any ATM.
Q. Is there a fee to get cash from a bank teller?
A. There is no fee for withdrawing cash from any bank teller at any Visa bank or credit union displaying the Visa logo including Bank of America banking centers.
Q. Is there a fee for a Point-Of-Sale (POS) purchase?
A. You can use your debit card to make purchases at any business location that displays the Visa logo without incurring a fee.
Q. Is there a fee for getting cash back at a Point-Of-Sale (POS) location?
A. Bank of America does not charge a fee for getting cash back at a Point-Of-Sale (POS) location. While most businesses do not charge a fee for getting cash back, there are some who will charge you a fee for this service. You should always check what policy is at a business prior to getting cash back.
Q. Is there a fee if my debit card is denied for insufficient funds?
A. There is no fee if your debit card is denied for insufficient funds. However, your transaction will be declined if there are not enough funds to cover your purchase.
Q. Is there a fee if I lost my debit card and need a replacement?
A. If you lose your debit card or need a replacement for a damaged card, you are allowed one free replacement per year. Additional replacement cards cost $5.00 thereafter. If you lose your card and need a replacement, immediately contact Bank of America customer service toll-free at 1-866-213-4074.
Q. Is there a fee if I use an ATM outside of the United States?
A. There is a $3.00 transaction fee from Bank of America for all international ATM withdrawals in addition to any surcharges that the ATM owner may assess.
Q. Where can I get a complete list of fees?
A. There is a complete schedule of fees in the Deposit Agreement that was mailed to you in your initial debit card package.
Q. How do I find out what my balance is on my debit card?
A. You can complete a balance inquiry 24 hours a day at no cost by using the automated account information via the website at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay or by calling the toll-free customer service number 1-866-213-4074. You may also check your balance at any ATM. It is recommended that you check your balance before performing a transaction so you will know how much money is available on your card.
Q. Do I have to withdraw/use all of my UI benefits on the day of deposit?
A. No. You may use your card everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted, at pinned Point-Of-Sale (POS) terminals and at ATMs for any portion of your available balance as often as you like. Safeguard your money and take only what is needed.
Q. Is there a daily maximum I can withdraw/use from my debit card account?
A. No. Unlike a traditional bank account, your debit card has no daily purchase or withdraw limit and you have full access to your available balance at any time. However, ATM owners determine how much their ATMs will dispense per transaction and you may need to make multiple withdrawals to take the amount needed. If more cash is required, back-to-back withdrawals can be made.
Q. How much money can I withdraw from an ATM?
A. The debit card has no daily limit for ATM withdrawals. You may withdraw up to the balance available in your debit card account or the maximum amount allowed by the ATM, whichever is less. However, individual ATMs may have limits. Remember, there is no fee if you use your debit card at Bank of America ATMs. You are allowed two free (no transaction fee) withdrawals per month at non-Bank of America ATMs. There is a $1.00 fee for additional withdrawals at non-Bank of America ATMs beyond the first two.
Q. Is there a limit to the number of purchases I can make per month?
A. You can make an unlimited number of Point-Of-Sale (POS) purchases per month. You can continue to use your debit card as long as there are enough funds in the debit card account to cover the amount of the purchase. Please remember to keep track of your balance.
Q. I am no longer collecting UI benefits, what do I do with my debit card?
A. Your debit card is valid for four (4) years. Even if you are no longer collecting UI benefits, you should keep your debit card in a safe location in the event you need to file for UI benefits again. Keeping the debit card will expedite the receipt of UI benefits for future claims. If you lose or throw away your debit card, or if your next claim you file is more than four (4) years later and the debit card has expired, the Division of UI will re-enroll you when you file your new claim.
Q. Do I need a new debit card every time I apply for benefits?
A. No. If you are currently not collecting UI benefits, you should keep your debit card in a secure location. You can use your same debit card if you file for UI benefits within four (4) years from when you first received your debit card.
Q. What do I do when my debit card expires?
A. If you have received UI benefits within a month of the expiration date on the debit card a replacement debit card will be sent to you in the mail by Bank of America.
Q. What happens if the ATM only dispenses in $20 increments and I have less than $20 in my debit card account?
A. You may access your funds everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted for purchases, including cash-back transactions at pinned POS locations. In addition, if you would like your full balance in cash, you may perform an over-the-counter Cash Access transaction at any Visa bank or credit union displaying the Visa logo.
Q. Are there any transactions that I can make with my debit card, which will cause a “hold” on my funds?
A. Since your debit card functions just like a regular debit card, there are certain types of common transactions where sometimes a “hold” of an estimated amount of final payment will be placed on your account to make sure you have enough money to pay the bill. Hotels, auto rental and restaurant merchants may hold the amount of your estimated bill until final settlement of the transaction, making these funds unavailable for other purchases. These holds may take a few days to be removed, so keep that in mind when making these special types of transactions. Please remember to always check your available balance before making a transaction.
Q. How can I change my method of payment to direct deposit?
A. You can opt not to receive your UI benefits by debit card by switching to direct deposit at www.njuifile.net.
A. Contact Bank of America customer service toll-free at 1-866-213-4074; their telephone number is also displayed on the back of your card as well as in your user guide information. You may also obtain account information via Bank of America's Online customer service at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay.
Q. What are Bank of America's customer service hours?
A. For your convenience automated account information, dedicated customer service representatives and www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay are available 24 hours a day, seven (7) days a week. Bank of America customer service can be reached toll-free at 1-866-213-4074.
Prepaid Debit Card automated account information options include:
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Customer service representatives can help with the above options plus:
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Online help at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay options include:
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Q. Can I use my local Bank of America banking center for customer service on this account?
A. All debit card customer service needs must be directed to the toll-free Bank of America customer service number at 1-866-213-4074. Banking centers can assist with over-the-counter Cash Access transactions, but not with detailed account and balance information for the State of New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development Prepaid Debit Card.
Q. How do I change my address?
A. If you move, you should first contact your nearest Reemployment Call Center: Freehold Call Center (732) 761-2020; Union City Call Center (201) 601-4100; Cumberland Call Center (856) 507-2340; and Out-of-State Claims (888) 795-6672. After changing your address with the New Jersey Division of UI, you should call Bank of America customer service toll-free at 1-866-213-4074 or go online at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay to change your address.
Q. What happens if my card is lost, stolen or damaged?
A. If you lost your debit card, had it stolen or if your card is damaged, you must immediately call Bank of America customer service at 1-866-213-4074. The bank will mail you a new card free of charge as there is one free replacement per each calendar year. Additional replacement cards cost $5.00 per card and will arrive within five (5) to ten (10) business days. If you wish for faster delivery, you can elect to have your replacement card sent to you by express delivery; however, there is a $15.00 additional charge for that service.
Q. What happens if I try to make a purchase and there are insufficient funds on my card?
A. If you try to make a purchase at any Point-Of-Sale (POS) location and there are insufficient funds in your account to cover the purchase, the transaction will be denied. There is no transaction fee if you are denied for insufficient funds. Please check your balance on your debit card before attempting to make a purchase at a POS location.
Q. Am I responsible for transactions I did not make?
A. The Bank of America “Zero Liability” Policy protects you against fraudulent transactions if your card is lost or stolen (subject to certain terms and conditions). If you lose your card or someone uses your card without your permission, it is important that you contact Bank of America at 1-866-213-4074 as soon as possible so you can report the card lost or stolen, report any unauthorized transactions and begin the error resolution or dispute process. The deposit agreement you receive with your card will provide specific instructions on the dispute process and the time frames that apply to the Bank of America “Zero Liability” Policy.
Q. How do I dispute a transaction?
A. All account disputes should be directed to Bank of America customer service. You should contact Bank of America at 1-866-213-4074 immediately if you think your transaction activity or receipt is wrong. You should also contact Bank of America if you need more information about a transfer on the transaction activity or receipt.
Bank of America must hear from you no later than 60 days after the date you electronically access your account, if the error or problem could be viewed in your electronic history; or the date we sent the FIRST written history on which the error or problem appeared, whichever is earlier. In any event you must report the error or problem no more than 120 days after the transaction allegedly was credited or debited to your account.
A customer service representative will provide you with a dispute form to complete and return. A dispute form may also be obtained on the Bank of America customer service website at www.bankofamerica.com/cashpay.
Q. What if I forget my Personal Identification Number (PIN)?
A. If you forget your debit card PIN, call Bank of America customer service at 1-866-213-4074 to select a new one. You should choose numbers that are easy for you to remember, but hard for someone else to figure out.
Q. What if I enter the wrong PIN?
A. If you are having trouble remembering your debit card PIN, Do Not try to guess what it is when entering it at an ATM. If you enter the PIN wrong, you have three more chances to enter it correctly, or your debit card account will be locked and you will have to call Bank of America customer service at 1-866-213-4074 for assistance.
Q. How do I reset my PIN if I entered it incorrectly too many times?
A. If you enter an incorrect PIN too many times, your debit card account will be locked. You must contact Bank of America customer service at 1-866-213-4074 for assistance in unlocking your debit card account.
