Social Security Electronic Benefits Update
Last updated: June 11, 2026
Important: Paper checks are being phased out
As of September 30, 2025, the federal government no longer issues paper checks for most payments, including Social Security benefits. If you still receive a paper check, you must switch to direct deposit or a Direct Express® card to keep getting your payments on time.
What is changing?
The U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Social Security Administration (SSA) have transitioned to fully electronic benefit payments. This follows a March 2025 executive order, "Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Account," which directed federal agencies to stop issuing paper checks by September 30, 2025.
The change affects the small share of beneficiaries — less than one percent — who were still receiving monthly benefits by paper check. If you already get your benefits by direct deposit or Direct Express, you do not need to do anything.
Why is Social Security going paperless?
- Security: Paper checks are far more likely to be lost, stolen, or altered than electronic payments. Going electronic reduces fraud and theft.
- Reliability: Electronic payments arrive on time, even during mail delays, holidays, or emergencies.
- Cost: Printing and mailing a paper check costs roughly $3.07 — about 20 times more than an electronic payment — wasting taxpayer money.
Your two electronic payment options
1. Direct Deposit
Your benefits are paid straight into your checking or savings account. You'll need your bank's routing number and your account number. This is the fastest and most common option.
2. Direct Express® Card
A prepaid debit card for people without a bank account. Benefits are loaded automatically each month, and you can use the card anywhere Debit Mastercard® is accepted. No bank account or credit check is required.
How to update your payment method
- Online: Sign in to your personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount and update your direct deposit details.
- By phone (Social Security): Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday–Friday.
- By phone (Treasury Go Direct): Call 1-800-333-1795 or visit godirect.gov.
- In person: Visit your local Social Security office for help enrolling. Find your nearest office here.
Have your Social Security number and your bank account or Direct Express information ready when you call or apply.
Can I get a waiver?
A small number of people may qualify for an exemption from electronic payments — for example, individuals with certain mental impairments or those living in remote areas without reasonable access to banking. Waivers are granted by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. To request one, call 1-877-874-6347.
Protect yourself from scams
Scammers may use this change to target beneficiaries. Social Security and the Treasury will never ask for your bank details, Social Security number, or payment by gift card over an unsolicited call, text, or email. Only update your information through official channels: ssa.gov, the phone numbers above, or in person at a Social Security office.
Frequently asked questions
When does Social Security stop sending paper checks?
Paper checks for federal payments, including Social Security, were phased out starting September 30, 2025. Nearly all beneficiaries now receive payments electronically.
What if I don't have a bank account?
You can enroll in the Direct Express® prepaid debit card, which does not require a bank account or credit check.
Will my payment date or amount change?
No. Only the way you receive your money changes. Your benefit amount and scheduled payment date stay the same.
Who do I contact for help?
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), the Treasury Go Direct line at 1-800-333-1795, or visit your local office.
Need in-person help switching to electronic payments?
Find a Social Security Office Near YouThis is an unofficial informational resource and is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration. For official guidance, visit ssa.gov. Information summarized from SSA and U.S. Treasury announcements.