STRATEGIC PARTNERS
March 7, 2002
FLINT, Mich. -- Citizens Bankwill participate in the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program for Michigan Family Independence Agency(FIA) customers.
The 150 Citizens Bank ATM terminals in Michigan displaying the Quest logo will provide benefits access to approximately 300,000 Michigan recipients, as well as recipients in other states eligible for EBT access.
Under EBT, cash assistance clients can use their state-issued Michigan Bridge Card -- a product similar to an ATM or debit card -- to purchase goods and obtain cash benefits at enrolled retailers' point-of-sale locations or participating ATMs.
Citizens Bank Vice President and ATM Product Manager Joseph P. Galvan, who is coordinating the bank's participation in the EBT program, said, "We are pleased to be a partner with the Michigan's Family Independence Agency in providing greater convenience and access to FIA customers. EBT will reduce costs and modernize service delivery."
At this time, Galvan said, EBT transactions will not be surcharged at Citizens Bank ATMs.
"We are pleased to welcome Citizens Bank to the EBT team," said FIA Director Douglas E. Howard. "Increased customer access will ensure success."
The state first introduced EBT in Jackson County in June 2000 and plans to have the program in place statewide by the end of 2001.
The Michigan Family Independence Agency is the administrative entity for the federal Temporary Assistance to Needy Families and food stamp programs. It delivers those services through a network of 104 county, multi-county and Wayne County district offices.
