Starting September 30, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop issuing paper checks for benefits payments. The SSA is urging all recipients of Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and other government benefits to switch to electronic payments before the deadline. This change is part of the federal government’s ongoing effort to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and combat fraud.

Beneficiaries who do not switch to electronic payments by the September 30 deadline and who do not qualify for a paper check exemption may experience delays or interruptions in their benefits payments.

Electronic Payment Options

The SSA offers two main options for receiving benefits electronically:

Direct Deposit to a Bank or Credit Union Account

Direct deposit is the simplest and most widely used option. Payments are deposited automatically into a checking or savings account. This ensures timely payment, even following a natural disaster or mail service disruption.

To set up direct deposit, you will need to provide information regarding your financial institution and the account to which you want your payments sent, including your account number and your bank’s routing number.

Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®

For recipients who don’t have a bank account, the SSA offers a government-prepaid debit card called Direct Express®. The federal government makes the appropriate funds available on this card for the beneficiary to use like any other debit card. The debit card option does not require a credit check. To learn more about the Direct Express® debit card, visit the Direct Express® website.

How to Switch to Electronic Payments

Anyone still receiving paper checks should act as soon as possible to avoid missing payments after the September 30 cutoff. Here are three ways to switch:

• Online: Visit the SSA website at www.ssa.gov/myaccount and log into or create a “my Social Security” account. From there, you can set up or change direct deposit information.
• By Phone: Call the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325- 0778) to speak with a representative who can help you enroll in electronic payments.
• In Person: Visit your local SSA office. You may need to make an appointment, and be sure to bring identification.

Here’s an action checklist that can help you:

STEP 1: Gather Information Before You Call or Go Online

• Social Security number (SSN)
• Current mailing address and phone number
• Bank account number and routing number (if using direct deposit)
• Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)

STEP 2: Choose Your Payment Method

1. Direct Deposit (fastest option)
   • Requires a checking or savings account.
2. Direct Express® Debit Mastercard® (for those without a bank account)
   • No credit check; funds are loaded monthly.

STEP 3: Contact the Right Agency Immediately

• For Direct Deposit or Direct Express Enrollment:
  • Call Go Direct® helpline: 1-800-333-1795 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET)
  • Or visit: www.GoDirect.gov
• For Social Security Online Enrollment:
  • Log in to your “my Social Security” account: www.ssa.gov/myaccount
• For Personalized Help at a Local SSA Office Appointment:
  • Find your nearest office: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

STEP 4: If You May Qualify for a Waiver (Rare Cases)

You may still get paper checks if:

• You are 90+ years old
• You live in a remote area without electronic payment access
• You have a mental impairment that makes switching impossible

➡Call 1-800-333-1795 to request a waiver form.

STEP 5: Confirm Your Payment Setup

• Ask for a confirmation number and the date your first electronic payment will be made.
• If using direct deposit, confirm your bank received the “pre-note” before the payment date.