"Most" remaining MiCard users sign up for bank account payments

Minister says fewer than 100 may receive new cards after service switch-off

Treasury says its social security officers have been telephoning the remaining 629 MiCard users to warn that their cards will stop working at the end of the year. "Most" are said to have agreed to complete new forms so payments can be made directly into bank accounts.

Only a "very small number" will qualify for a replacement MiCard, limited to people unable to open a bank account.

Minister Alex Allinson claims current projections suggest fewer than 100 residents may meet that threshold. Those not eligible will receive their benefits or pension by cheque from the beginning of the new year.

Treasury told Tynwald it cannot yet confirm how many people will ultimately receive a new card or a cheque, as the process is still under way.

Around 200 cardholders have not yet been reached, with officers continuing call-backs and arranging home visits to ensure people retain access to their payments.

Treasury confirmed it has not carried out a risk assessment on whether vulnerable residents might accumulate large quantities of cash once cheques replace MiCards.

Money left on existing cards cannot be withdrawn; any remaining balance will instead be sent by cheque or paid into a nominated account.

Some MHKs raised concerns.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover says some constituents had been refused new MiCards despite requesting them, while Onchan MHK Julie Edge questioned what happens if payments enter overdrawn accounts, arguing some residents want to retain the service, while accusing the minister of 'invading' on their human rights.

The minister rejected suggestions of human rights issues, saying individuals can choose which bank account is used or receive a cheque:

Treasury added that the fixed costs of running the MiCard system are significant, and decisions on eligibility for replacement cards rest with social security officers.