Phasing down most paper checks for federal benefits
The federal government will begin phased out social security and other federal payment paper checks by September 30th.
Cheddar
Social Security Checks will be paperless from Tuesday, September 30th.
An executive order issued in March 2025 will result in federal benefits payments being issued primarily electronically, and in most cases paper checks will be phased out.
The White House says that the use of federal paper-based payments, such as checks and mail orders, “imposes unnecessary costs and risks of delays, fraud, loss of payments, theft and inefficiency.”
The Social Security Administration is encouraging recipients to reach out to paper checks in the weeks leading up to the changes and switch to electronic payment options before the deadline.
“Electronic payments offer greater benefits than paper checks, including faster access to funds, greater security and greater convenience,” Chief Communications Officer Nick Perrine said in a statement. “Payments can be deposited directly into a bank account or a prepaid debit card, eliminating the need to wait for postal delivery or visit the bank.”
Here are some things you need to know about the changes and how to go from paper to digital:
Social Security no longer offers a “temporary check option”
In addition to the changes, agents will no longer offer “temporary checking options” when processing initial billing.
Beneficiaries interested in requesting exemptions from electronic payment requirements must file the exemption with the U.S. Treasury by calling 1-877-874-6347. SSA technicians can assist beneficiaries in this transition and answer questions.
According to the SSA, those preparing their initial claims must set up a bank account for direct deposits to ensure that new beneficiaries receive the benefits without sturdy interruption.
How to get Social Security Payments Electronically
In the wake of the transition, the Social Security Administration will provide beneficiaries, whether “old people, survivors, or disabled insurance people (OASDIs)” with several ways to receive federal payments electronically.
- Direct Deposit: Beneficiaries may use or sign up my Social Security online account to manage your direct deposit information and access benefits details. Supplementary Security Income (SSI) recipients and international beneficiaries can make a call 1-800-772-1213 For support.
- Direct Express Card: A safe and convenient prepaid debit card option for people without a bank account. Please call to register 1-800-333-1795 Alternatively, go to www.usdirectexpress.com.
