Say Goodbye to Paper Checks: Why Paper Checks Are Going Away (And What You Need to Know)

Heads up! If you’re still getting your Social Security benefits through paper checks, there’s a big change coming that you need to know about.

Starting September 30, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop sending out paper checks. Instead, they’re moving toward electronic payments, such as direct deposit to your bank account or using a Direct Express debit card. This move is part of a larger effort by the government to modernize payment systems, save money, and cut down on fraud.

If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may have heard that the Social Security Administration (SSA) is no longer issuing paper checks. 

This shift to electronic payments has left many people wondering: Why is this happening? What do I need to do? And are there any exceptions?

Let’s break it down.

Why is Social Security Stopping Paper Checks?

The U.S. Department of the Treasury began phasing out paper checks for federal benefits (including SSDI and SSI) in 2013. The main reasons are:

• Security: Electronic payments are safer and reduce the risk of lost or stolen checks.

• Speed: You get your money faster—no need to wait for the mail.

• Cost savings: Direct deposit or debit card payments save the government money on printing and mailing checks.

This change affects not just disability payments but also retirement, survivor, and veterans' benefits.

What Do I Need to Do If I Still Get Paper Checks?

If you're still receiving paper checks for Social Security or SSI, you’ll need to switch to one of the following electronic options:

Option 1: Direct Deposit

Your benefits go directly into your bank or credit union account. This is the fastest and most common option.

How to sign up:

• Visit www.godirect.gov

• Call the Go Direct helpline at 1-800-333-1795

• Or sign up through your local Social Security office

Option 2: Direct Express® Debit Card

If you don’t have a bank account, you can get your payments loaded onto a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®.

You can use this card to:

• Make purchases

• Get cash at ATMs

• Pay bills online

  
  

No credit check or bank account is required to sign up.

What If I Can’t Open a Bank Account?

Not a problem. The Direct Express® Debit Card is designed for people in this exact situation. It’s a safe and convenient alternative to a bank account. The card works wherever Mastercard is accepted, and it doesn’t require you to maintain a balance or pay monthly fees.

What Happens If I Don’t Switch?

If you don’t voluntarily make the switch, the Treasury Department may automatically enroll you in the Direct Express® Debit Card program. That means your paper checks will stop, and you’ll begin receiving payments on the debit card instead.

You risk delays or complications if you don’t take action, so it’s best to make the change ahead of time.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you currently receive your benefits via paper check, you’ll need to make the switch to an electronic payment method before the September deadline. Don’t wait until the last minute. Setting up direct deposit is quick and easy, and it ensures your money lands securely and on time each month.

You can make the switch by:

• Signing up through your bank or credit union

• Creating a mySocialSecurity account online

• Visiting your local Social Security office

Are There Any Exceptions?

Yes, but they’re limited.

You may be able to continue receiving paper checks if you qualify for a waiver.

Exemptions may be granted if:

• You’re over age 90

• You have a mental impairment or other condition that prevents you from managing electronic payments

• You live in a remote location without access to banking services or the internet

To request a waiver, you’ll need to submit a written request and explain your situation. Contact the Social Security Administration or the U.S. Treasury for assistance.

Why This Change?

Moving to digital payments helps make the system safer and more efficient. Electronic payments are faster, more reliable, and reduce the risk of lost or stolen checks. This is to reduce Social Security fraud and payment issues. 

Social Security’s move away from paper checks is about making disability payments safer, faster, and more efficient. While it might feel like a big change, there are secure and accessible options, whether you have a bank account or not. If you haven’t already switched, take action soon. The sooner you make the move, the smoother your benefits will continue.

Have questions or need help making the switch? Reach out to your bank, visit SSA.gov, or stop by your local Social Security office.

Questions?

If you have questions about your Social Security disability benefits or need help making the switch to electronic payments, we’re here to help! 

Call us at 833-438-7734 or email attorneyvicki@getssdi.org; we’re happy to walk you through your options. 

Resources:

• Go Direct Program

• Social Security Administration

• Direct Express®: www.usdirectexpress.com