The Michigan Bridge Card system will be unavailable for users from approximately 11 p.m. Saturday, October 16, to 11 a.m. Sunday, October 17, as the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) undertakes a significant system upgrade. This enhancement is aimed at improving access to food and cash assistance through a new mobile app, making it more convenient for recipients to manage their benefits.
MDHHS has indicated that users can expect to resume their usual transactions starting at 11 a.m. on Sunday. Lew Roubal, the Senior Deputy Director for Opportunity at MDHHS, emphasized that these changes are designed to enhance client access to essential services and minimize disruptions during low usage periods.
The upgrade will involve transitioning to Fidelity Information Systems (FIS), a Florida-based company, which will serve as the new Electronic Benefit Transfer provider. This change comes after previous technology challenges during a prior system switch attempted in August. MDHHS is optimistic that this upcoming transition will be seamless.
Bridge Card holders should continue to access their benefits through www.michigan.gov/MIBridges and can contact customer service via the toll-free number printed on the back of their cards for assistance during the outage. It’s important for recipients to plan accordingly, especially if they rely on benefits for essential purchases.
Additionally, MDHHS has announced that eligible Michigan families are set to receive an extra monthly payment for food assistance this month in response to the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This additional support highlights the state’s commitment to assist those in need during these challenging times.