Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson has confirmed that a third letter is being sent to the 935 remaining MiCard users, urging them to provide bank account details to the Social Security Division by December 1.
The move is part of the planned withdrawal of the MiCard system at the end of December.
In Keys, Dr Allinson said the Treasury does not routinely ask or record how many of the existing MiCard users have a bank or online accounts.
He confirmed that his department is “working on alternative payment solutions for those who cannot open a bank account” and is collaborating with commercial entities and the Isle of Man Post Office on a “contingency facility for payment”.
Concern
The timeline has raised significant concerns among members.
Jason Moorhouse questioned the short notice, asking if the minister would “pause what we’ve currently got.”
Rob Callister pressed for a guarantee that “nobody will suffer a late payment,” while Julie Edge highlighted difficulties contacting Social Security, stating, “you never get through.”
Dr Allinson reiterated his commitment, adding: “I will commit to make absolutely certain that all those benefit recipients who do not have access to a bank account and need access to their benefits in cash, get exactly what they need.”
Despite calls from multiple members, including Kate Lord-Brennan and Joney Faragher, to delay the transition, the minister indicated the commercial contract with the Post Office is ending and extending it would incur “considerable cost”.
He encouraged users to “reach out to the Social Security Division so that we can support you”.