The U.S. federal government will officially stop issuing paper checks for most federal payments, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security, tax refunds, and veterans’ benefits. If you are among the few who are still getting a paper check in the mail each month, it’s time to take action immediately.
While this particular change may feel like a disruption, it’s actually a major step toward a safer, faster, and more cost-effective future for federal benefit payments. However, it does not mean that challenges will disappear. They are still there, especially for people living with disabilities, seniors, or those without bank accounts. Here is what you need to do next, and the steps that you can take.
Why Uncle Sam Is Ditching the Paper Trail
However familiar they may feel, paper checks are a logistical and financial nightmare. For beneficiaries relying on monthly payments to cover basic needs, even one missing check can cause real distress. This is because they are 16 times more likely to be lost, stolen, delayed, or tampered with.
Furthermore, the cost of printing and mailing a single check is about 50 cents, while the electronic funds transfer costs less than 15 cents. That difference may seem small, but when you multiply it across millions of monthly payments, the government stands to save millions of taxpayer dollars annually.
Former President Donald Trump signed an executive order requiring that all federal disbursements shift to electronic payments by September 30.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive a Check
If you are receiving benefits through a Direct Express debit card or by direct deposit, there is no need for you to take any action. However, if you’re still getting paper checks in your mailbox, it’s time to switch.
Here are the options to consider:
- Direct Express Card: The Treasury offers this government-backed debit card as an easy alternative to those with no bank accounts. Your benefits are deposited directly onto the card each month, and no bank is required.
- Open a Bank or Credit Union Account: If you prefer traditional banking, visit any bank of your choice and open an account.
- Direct Deposit: Apart from being the most secure method, it’s also the fastest. You can sign up through your benefit-paying agency, like the Social Security Administration, or enroll at GoDirect.gov.
- You can also call the Electronic Payment Solution Center at 800-967-6857, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, for help.
Staying Alert as Scams Are on the Rise
Fraudsters may impersonate Social Security or Treasury officials, trying to trick you into giving up bank information or Social Security numbers. This happens whenever the government makes a major change, hence scammers see this as an opportunity to get money. The fraudsters may impersonate Social Security or Treasury officials, trying to trick you into giving up bank information or Social Security numbers.
In order to stay safe, use only official government websites, such as GoDirect.gov or SSA.gov. Do not click links in suspicious emails or texts. If you are unsure, call the agencies directly. You can also use numbers listed on official government websites and not those sending messages.
Switch to Electronic Payments Now
The government has stated that there will be no more temporary paper checks, even for new claimants. You may fail to receive your benefits if you’re not signed up for electronic payments by September 30.
In addition, one shouldn’t assume exceptions will be easy to come by. While there may be rare cases where paper checks continue, such as for individuals with no other means to receive payment, the burden of proof will be tedious, and the process is not guaranteed to be smooth.
Conclusion
The change in how Social Security Check is delivered will ensure that Americans receive their benefits safely and efficiently. With fraud and mail delays on the rise, electronic payments offer a smoother and more reliable experience. Switching to electronic payments also ensures that your federal benefits arrive early and that you stay in control of your money.
Don’t risk delays or missed payments. Make the switch today and enjoy peace of mind, knowing your benefits will always reach you on time and safely.