The Government of Mexico has unveiled an updated version of the Banco del Bienestar mobile application. This new tool allows approximately 43 million beneficiaries of social programmes associated with the banking institution to conduct and receive electronic transfers for the first time, utilising only their card number, CLABE account number, or a mobile phone number.
During the launch event, federal authorities elaborated on how the revamped application aligns with the Digital Economy Law for Digital Payments, a regulation that came into effect at the beginning of November. The law aims to promote the use of tools such as debit and credit cards, bank transfers, direct debits, QR codes, and NFC technology, facilitating both commercial transactions and governmental services.
New Features Introduced in the Mobile Application
Víctor Manuel Lamoyi, the General Director of Banco del Bienestar, highlighted that the updated application is now available for free download on both iOS and Android app stores. In addition to interbank transfers, the platform introduces several new features, including:
- Real-time balance and transaction monitoring.
- Transaction notifications.
- Digital payments and collections via QR codes or mobile numbers.
- A locator tool to find the nearest bank branches.
Steps to Activate and Make Transfers Using the App
Beneficiaries of social programmes such as the Pension for the Wellbeing of Older Adults, Mujeres Bienestar, and the Rita Cetina scholarships will need to download the app from the official app stores. After accepting the terms and conditions, users must enter their mobile phone number, the 16 digits of their bank card, and the PIN used at ATMs. Subsequently, the system will prompt them to create a password for future logins.
The new electronic transfer feature operates similarly to most commercial banks, utilising the Interbank Electronic Payment System (SPEI). Hence, individuals wishing to receive deposits must be aware of their interbank CLABE account number. Conversely, those sending money should request this information from the recipient to complete the transaction.
Once they have the required details, users can simply log into the Banco del Bienestar app, select the SPEI transfer option, and initiate the process. The system may ask for the destination bank and the name of the account holder. After specifying the amount and the reason for the transfer, users can confirm the operation to complete the transaction.
Accessing Support and Services
Federal authorities remind users that Banco del Bienestar branches are open Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 16:30. In contrast, ATMs, the mobile application, and the Telephone Assistance Centre operate 24/7, throughout the entire year, ensuring beneficiaries have continuous access to their financial services.