DYPA: Activation of Prepaid Cards Required for Access to Benefits

Starting March 15, a new payment method for DYPA benefits has been implemented through credit to a special prepaid card, which recipients must activate upon receiving it via mail from the Payment Services Provider (PYPP). Specifically, each recipient of one or more DYPA benefits corresponds to a unique prepaid card exclusively used for disbursing all their social benefits. The PYPP issues and sends the card to the recipient who maintains an active payment account (IBAN). Recipients can withdraw up to 50% of each benefit amount in cash, while the remaining balance is spent solely using the prepaid card. The card can only be used in Greece and within EU countries for purchasing goods and services, excluding weapon purchases and gambling transactions. Exceptions include individuals with an 80% or higher visual impairment, who continue to receive payments via IBAN. Various benefits are disbursed through this prepaid card, including unemployment allowances, maternity protection grants, parental leave benefits, and more. Participating PYPPs include National Bank, Alpha Bank, Attica Bank, Piraeus Bank, Eurobank, and several cooperative banks. The prepaid card is automatically issued through the Integrated Information System without requiring an application from beneficiaries. Beneficiaries will receive an electronic message prompting them to verify and correct their details within five business days. If no action is taken, the application will be automatically submitted to the corresponding PYPP, which will issue and send the card. Those already receiving benefits under the new system or expecting to by the first quarter of 2025 should ensure two key steps: opening an IBAN account with a participating bank if they do not have one or currently receive benefits via ELTA, and updating their information, especially addresses, in the electronic applications of the benefits they receive from DYPA or OPKEA. Beneficiaries will be informed via personalized electronic messages about the status of their card issuance application and can check its progress anytime using TaxisNet codes. Cardholders will also participate in a public lottery program for transactions made using the prepaid card, with 8,500 lucky winners receiving €1,000 each. Greater use of the prepaid card for purchases increases participation chances in the lottery.