CenMo does not require you to have a checking account

CenMo is a payment platform used by some state agencies and employers to deliver refunds, tax credits, unemployment benefits, and other payments. You do not need a checking account to receive money through CenMo. The platform can deposit funds into a savings account, money market account, or prepaid card account instead. If you have none of those, CenMo can also issue a check or load funds onto a debit card it provides.

The key requirement is that you have some way to receive the money — not that it has to be a checking account specifically. CenMo works with whatever account type you already have or are willing to set up.

Key Takeaways

  • CenMo accepts savings accounts, money market accounts, and prepaid cards as alternatives to checking accounts.
  • If you have no bank account at all, CenMo can issue a paper check or load funds onto a debit card in your name.
  • You will need routing and account numbers if you choose direct deposit, regardless of account type.
  • The state or employer using CenMo determines which payment methods are available to you in that specific case.

What account types CenMo will accept

CenMo's direct deposit option works with any account that has a routing number and account number. That includes traditional checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, and some prepaid card accounts. The account does not have to be at a major bank — credit unions and online banks work just as well.

When you set up direct deposit through CenMo, you provide your routing number and account number. The platform then deposits the payment directly into that account on the date the state or employer specifies. The account type itself does not matter to CenMo's system.

Alternatives if you do not have a bank account

If you do not have a checking account or any other bank account, CenMo offers two other ways to receive your money. The first is a paper check mailed to your address. The second is a prepaid debit card issued in your name, which CenMo loads with your payment amount.

The prepaid card route is faster than waiting for a check to arrive by mail. The card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, and funds are loaded onto it on the payment date. You can then use the card to withdraw cash at ATMs, make purchases, or transfer money to another account. Some prepaid cards charge monthly fees or per-transaction fees, so check the terms before accepting this option.

Paper checks usually arrive within 10 to 14 business days of the payment date, depending on mail delivery in your area. If you lose the check or it does not arrive, you can contact the state agency or employer to request a replacement or a different payment method.

How to choose your payment method when setting up CenMo

When you first receive a payment through CenMo, the state agency or employer will ask you to select how you want the money delivered. You will see options like "direct deposit," "prepaid card," or "check," depending on what that particular program offers. Not all programs offer all three methods.

If you choose direct deposit, you will need to provide your routing number and account number. You can find these on the bottom left of any check from your account, or by calling your bank or credit union. If you choose the prepaid card, CenMo will mail it to you and you will activate it when it arrives. If you choose a check, it will be mailed to the address on file.

You can usually change your payment method for future payments, but the current payment may already be in process. Contact the state agency or employer handling your payment if you need to make a change quickly.

What information CenMo needs from you

For direct deposit, CenMo needs your name, address, routing number, and account number. Make sure the name on the account matches the name on your payment authorization. If there is a mismatch, the deposit may be rejected or delayed.

For a prepaid card or check, CenMo only needs your name and mailing address. The card or check will be sent to that address. If you move, update your address with the state agency or employer as soon as possible so your payment does not go to the wrong place.

Fees and costs associated with each payment method

Direct deposit to a bank account is free. There are no fees from CenMo or the state agency for this option. Your bank may charge fees for your account, but those are separate from the payment process itself.

Paper checks are also free. CenMo and the state agency do not charge you to receive a check.

Prepaid cards may have fees. Some CenMo prepaid cards charge a monthly maintenance fee, a per-transaction fee, or a fee to withdraw cash at an out-of-network ATM. These fees vary depending on the card issuer and the state program. Before you accept a prepaid card, ask about the fee schedule so you know what to expect.

What to do if your payment does not arrive

If you chose direct deposit and the money did not show up on the expected date, contact your bank first to confirm the deposit was not rejected. Banks sometimes reject deposits if the account number or routing number was entered incorrectly, or if the account was closed. Your bank can tell you whether the deposit arrived and was rejected, or whether it never came through at all.

If your bank confirms the deposit was rejected, contact the state agency or employer that sent the payment. Provide them with the rejection reason from your bank. They can reissue the payment using a different method, such as a check or prepaid card.

If you chose a prepaid card or check and it did not arrive after 14 business days, contact the state agency or employer. They can check the status of the mailing and reissue the payment if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a savings account instead of a checking account with CenMo?

Yes. CenMo accepts direct deposit to savings accounts, money market accounts, and other account types that have a routing number and account number. The account type does not matter to CenMo's system.

What happens if I do not have any bank account?

CenMo can send you a paper check or issue a prepaid debit card in your name. The prepaid card arrives faster than a check and lets you access your money immediately. Both options are available through most state programs.

Can I change my payment method after I set it up?

Usually yes, but it depends on the state agency or employer. Contact them to request a change. If your current payment is already in process, the change may not take effect until the next payment cycle.

Are there fees to use CenMo?

CenMo itself does not charge you a fee. Direct deposit and checks are free. Prepaid cards may have monthly or per-transaction fees depending on the card issuer — ask about the fee schedule before accepting a card.

What if the direct deposit is rejected by my bank?

Contact your bank to find out why the deposit was rejected. Common reasons include an incorrect account number, a closed account, or a frozen account. Once you know the reason, contact the state agency or employer to reissue the payment using a different method.