Since the introduction of the payment card for asylum seekers, the Saxon Refugee Council has received numerous complaints from those affected. "Weekly markets, smaller grocery stores, legal advisors or sports clubs do not accept the payment card or simply do not have suitable card readers," said Dave Schmidtke, press spokesman for the Saxon Refugee Council, according to a statement. Children can no longer take cash to school for materials, excursions or food.
Smithke reports particular problems with the restrictions on bank transfers using the card. Each time, the IBAN of the recipient must be sent to the district office and approved by them. If some offices do not approve this in time, payment deadlines cannot be met. "Those affected from Hoyerswerda, Bautzen and Pirna come to us with reminder notices and threats to cancel daycare, cell phone contracts or Germany tickets," said Schmidtke. For online purchases, such as on eBay, bank transfers are completely excluded. "This particularly affects people seeking protection in rural areas due to the lack of infrastructure there," said Schmidtke.
