Common Questions: Education and Marketing

How is Treasury making recipients aware of their payment options, including the availability of the ETA^SM?

Over the last several years, Treasury and the Federal payment agencies have frequently mailed information notices to check recipients about their payment options. Treasury and the Social Security Administration also conducted a public education campaign that included a public relations campaign, public service advertising, and grassroots education and outreach.

In addition to information about the Debt Collection Improvement Act and the ETA, the grassroots component provided information on how to select a financial institution and account and how to use banking services. A field network that included Treasury/Financial Management Service staff, regional managers, and community-based organization contacts was used in five regions to extend as far as possible the reach of this educational effort. The network conducted "in-touch" seminars with check recipients, and staff met with local and grassroots organizations (such as neighborhood associations; senior citizen, disabled, and homeless organizations; and ethnic advocacy organizations) to equip them to lead educational seminars for their constituencies. Through this effort, Treasury provided up-to-date information about policy decisions, outreach partnership opportunities, and available materials.

Is the financial institution required to post the ETA logo and other marketing materials related to the ETA in all its branches?

Yes. The financial institution must display the ETA logo at any branch that offers the ETA, as well as provide the customer with any other marketing materials that may be requested. If a branch location does not offer the ETA directly, such as offering the capability to open the account only by telephone, the financial institution is not required to display the logo at that location, but it should have marketing materials available to customers who request them.

What role do Federal agencies have in publicizing ETAs?

Under 31 CFR Part 208.7, Management of Federal Agency Disbursements; Final Rule, agencies must disclose to each individual who is eligible to receive a Federal benefit, wage, salary, or retirement payment, and who is not already receiving payment by electronic funds transfer, the availability of the ETA as an alternate method of receiving payment.

How can a financial institution receive free marketing materials for the ETA?

A financial institution can receive free marketing materials by contacting the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas at (214) 922-5254, or by e-mail to Pubsorder@dal.FRB.org.