Embassy of the United States Panama

What is International Direct Deposit?

International Direct Deposit is the mechanism by which your monthly benefit payment will be electronically transferred from the U.S. Federal Government to your bank account in Panama. This system is faster and more convenient than receiving a paper check. You will not depend on the postal service or any other intermediary to receive your payments.

Who is Eligible to Enroll in International Direct Deposit?

At this time, all Civil Service, Social Security and Veterans Affairs beneficiaries residing in Panama may enroll The International Direct Deposit Program. If you receive your benefits through the Office of Worker’s Compensation, a separate Direct Deposit program is available to you. Please see below for more information on this program.

When Will I Receive my Payment if I Enroll in International Direct Deposit?

For Civil Service recipients, the electronic transfer will be effective the second business day of each month. For Social Security recipients, the electronic transfer will be effective the fourth business day of each month and for the Veteran's Affairs, the electronic fund transfer will be the second business day of each month.

How Can I Enroll in International Direct Deposit?

Please fill out the enrollment form for Civil Service or Social Security or Veterans Affairs annuitants, or go to the Federal Benefits section of the U.S. Embassy's Consular Section or one of the 23 participating banks. For Civil Service and Social Security, you will complete Section 1 and 2 of the form, and your bank will complete Section 3 and submit the enrollment form for you. For Veterans Affairs, you will complete Section A and sign in Section D, your bank will complete Section A and C. Your electronic payments will begin in 30-90 days.

Participating Banks

For more information about International Direct Deposit, please call the Federal Benefits Unit at 317-5000 (Monday thru Thursday from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon and 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon) or by email.