Our customer, a large Swiss city, faced significant challenges in distributing social benefits to refugees and residents without local bank accounts. Traditional methods, such as cash disbursements and checks, were not only time-consuming and labor-intensive but also posed security risks and lacked transparency. The administrative burden was substantial, diverting resources from other essential services.

To address these issues, they were looking for a vendor in Switzerland and came to the conclusion that YAPEAL was the right partner for them. The city implemented our Social Card solution, a modern solution for the digital disbursement of social benefits. This solution replaced outdated methods with a more efficient and secure system, utilizing a prepaid Visa debit card. Beneficiaries could choose between a physical card or a digital version integrated into their smartphones via Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.

The Social Card solution from YAPEAL offered several advantages:

Streamlined Processes: By eliminating the need for cash or check distributions, the city reduced administrative tasks by 60%, saving an estimated 2,500 working hours annually. Social benefits were transferred directly to the card's associated IBAN via SIC transfers, simplifying the process.

Enhanced Flexibility: The program accommodated various disbursement types, including one-time payments (e.g., energy allowances), recurring payments, and immediate assistance for those in urgent need.

User-Friendly Onboarding: The city benefited from a straightforward onboarding process through the YAPEAL user-friendly platform, eliminating the need for additional software or hardware investments.

Efficient Resource Allocation: The significant reduction in administrative workload allowed staff to focus more on their core responsibilities, improving overall service delivery and enabling a 40% reduction in paperwork.

Customizable Controls: The city could set specific parameters, such as excluding certain industries (e.g., gambling), setting withdrawal limits, restricting card usage to specific regions, and controlling online purchase capabilities. This helped reduce the risk of misuse by 70%.

For beneficiaries: The Social Card solution provided timely access to funds without the need for a traditional bank account. It eliminated the requirement for frequent visits to government offices, enabled cashless payments at over a million retailers in Switzerland and online, and allowed for cash withdrawals at ATMs and participating merchants. The card's neutral design ensured a non-discriminatory experience for all users.

The implementation of YAPEAL's Social Card solution transformed the city's approach to social benefit distribution, making it more efficient, secure, and user-centric. This initiative not only optimized administrative operations, but also significantly enhanced the quality of life for refugees and residents relying on government support.