Social Security Is Phasing Out Paper Checks. Here’s What Beneficiaries Need To Know

People still receiving Social Security benefits in the mail need to prepare for electronic changes as paper checks are being phased out soon.

The Social Security Administration plans to complete the transition to electronic payments for beneficiaries by the end of this year, according to the agency.

Federal law and Executive Order 14247, which went into effect Sept. 30, 2025, require federal benefit payments to be made electronically, with limited exceptions.

If you’re still receiving benefit payments by paper check, the administration encourages switching to electronic payments as soon as possible.

“Switching now ensures you receive your Social Security or Supplemental Security income quickly and securely,” the administration said in a recent news release.

How do I switch my Social Security from paper checks to electronic?

Beneficiaries can create or sign in to their Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount and provide their bank account information to receive payments through direct deposit.

According to the administration, individuals can also ask their financial institution to send their direct deposit information to the Social Security Administration electronically.

For people without a bank account, the administration said electronic payments are available through a prepaid debit card offered through the Direct Express program. More information is available at godirect.gov.

Some people in “extremely rare circumstances” may qualify for an exception to the electronic-payment requirement, according to the Social Security Administration. Individuals who need an exception to switching to electronic payments can request a waiver through the U.S. Treasury by calling 855-290-1545.

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