The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that it will fully transition away from paper checks and move to electronic payments by September 2025. This change aims to improve the security, reliability, and efficiency of benefit delivery. While most beneficiaries already receive payments electronically, about 180,000 individuals still rely on paper checks.
The shift will eliminate the risks associated with lost or stolen checks and provide faster access to funds. Social Security recipients who still receive paper checks must choose one of two electronic payment methods: direct deposit into a bank account or the Direct Express Debit Mastercard program. The Direct Express card was introduced in 2008 and offers a way for people to receive and manage their benefits without needing a traditional bank account.
The SSA highlights several advantages of electronic payments, especially for those in rural areas or older adults, including timely payments without delays caused by weather or postal disruptions. The transition is also expected to save taxpayer dollars, as issuing paper checks costs more than electronic payments.
Individuals who need help making the switch can contact the SSA or the Go Direct helpline for assistance. The SSA is encouraging everyone to act soon to avoid any disruptions in receiving benefits.
The shift to electronic payments follows a 2013 rule that mandated new federal benefit recipients to choose electronic methods. Now, even those who were grandfathered into the paper check system will need to transition.
