What You Need to Know.
If you or a loved one currently receive federal benefits via paper check, it’s time to make a change. The era of the paper Social Security check is officially drawing to a close.
As of September 30, 2025, the U.S. government has mandated that all federal benefits payments transition exclusively to electronic payments. This means that after this date, you will no longer receive a physical check in the mail. If you rely on these payments, you must take action now to ensure your benefits continue without interruption.
Why the Change? Benefits of Going Paperless
This shift to an all-electronic system wasn't arbitrary; it was made to benefit recipients and the government alike. Here are the key reasons Social Security is going paperless:
Eliminating Check Fraud: Paper checks are vulnerable to theft and fraud. Electronic payments drastically reduce the risk of your benefits being intercepted, lost, or illegally cashed.
Cost Savings: Printing, mailing, and processing millions of paper checks annually is a significant expense for the government. Electronic payments save taxpayer money.
Faster, More Reliable Access: Direct Deposit and the Direct Express® Card ensure that your money is available on time, every time, without delays caused by mailing, weather, or holidays.
How to Receive Your Payments Going Forward
You have two secure options for receiving your federal benefits electronically:
Direct Deposit: The fastest and most convenient method. Your benefits are deposited directly into your bank, credit union, or savings account on the payment date.
Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®: If you do not have a bank account or prefer not to use one, the Direct Express® Card is a safe and easy option. It's a prepaid debit card that is automatically credited with your benefits each month. You can use it to make purchases, pay bills, and get cash.
To set up Direct Deposit or learn more about the Direct Express® Card, visit the official Social Security Administration website: SSA.gov/deposit.
🚨 Final Warning: Watch Out for Social Security Scammers
The transition to electronic payments is a prime opportunity for criminals to target beneficiaries. Be extremely vigilant.
Scammers may contact you by phone, email, or letter, claiming to be from the Social Security Administration. They might promise that you can still receive a paper check if you pay a fee or provide personal information.
Remember these crucial facts:
The deadline is firm: September 30, 2025. No one can legally promise you a paper check after this date.
The Social Security Administration will NEVER call, email, or text you demanding immediate payment, threatening your benefits, or asking for your Social Security number or bank account information.
Never provide personal or financial information to an unsolicited caller or email.
Keep your money safe and your information secure. Set up your electronic payments today and protect yourself from scammers.