[jpindar]

There are already benefit programs that distribute money by putting it on a debit card, eliminating the need for a bank account.

[gpm]

Doesn't a debit card require a bank account, at least behind the scenes?

[jpindar]

It doesn't require the person who gets the card to have, or be eligible for, a bank account. You don't need a bank account to use a pre-paid gift card either.

I suppose they would have an account number within the organization that is distributing the money, but that's not quite the same thing, and surely has less overhead.