If you still receive your Social Security benefits by paper check, there is an important change you need to know about. Starting September 30, most federal benefit payments, including Social Security, will be sent electronically. That means you will need to switch to either direct deposit or the Direct Express® Debit MasterCard® to keep getting your money without delays.
Why social security payments are going electronic
The government is phasing out paper checks to make the process safer, faster, and more reliable. With electronic payments:
- Your funds go directly into your bank account or onto your Direct Express Card.
- You avoid delays from mail delivery.
- You reduce the risk of lost or stolen checks.
- You no longer need to make extra trips to the bank just to cash your check.
As Walt Henderson, director of the U.S. Treasury Department’s Go Direct® campaign, said in a past statement: “Switching to electronic payments is not only safer, it saves taxpayers money and ensures that people get their benefits on time, every time.”
How to set up direct deposit for social security
If you already have a checking or savings account, direct deposit is the simplest option. Signing up is free and only takes a few minutes. Here is how you can do it:
- Log in to your my Social Security account at ssa.gov.
- Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 if you prefer to speak with a representative.
- Visit your local Social Security office for in-person help.
Once set up, your Social Security payment will automatically go straight into your bank account on your scheduled payment day each month.
How to sign up for a direct express card
If you do not have a bank account, the Direct Express® Card is a secure alternative. It is a prepaid debit card issued by Comerica Bank, and your benefits are loaded onto it each month. You can use it anywhere that accepts MasterCard.
To enroll:
- Call 1-800-333-1795.
- Visit www.usdirectexpress.com to sign up online.
With the Direct Express Card, you can:
- Withdraw cash at ATMs or get cash back at many retail stores.
- Use it to pay bills, shop in stores, or make purchases online.
- Track your spending easily, since there are no overdraft fees.
This option is especially helpful if you prefer not to open a bank account but still want the convenience of electronic payments.
What happens if you do not make the switch
If you do not act before September 30, your paper checks may be delayed or disrupted. The U.S. Treasury has made it clear that temporary checks are no longer available for new claims, and exemptions are rare.
If you have no other way to receive your money, you must file a waiver by calling the Treasury at 1-877-874-6347. In limited cases, paper checks may continue, but most people are required to switch.
What you should do right now
To make sure you keep getting your benefits on time, you should:
- Choose either direct deposit or the Direct Express Card.
- Complete your enrollment before September 30.
- Keep your payment details up to date with Social Security.
The sooner you act, the smoother the transition will be.
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