If you still get your Social Security check by mail, there is a major change coming your way — and you need to act before September 30. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is phasing out paper checks completely, and that could affect your monthly payments if you do not take the right steps.
This shift will mostly impact a small group of Americans still getting checks by mail, but if that includes you, here is everything you need to know — and how to make sure you do not miss out on as much as $5,108 in benefits.
Why is social security ending paper checks?
The SSA is moving entirely to electronic payments starting September 30, 2025. That means no more paper checks will be sent through the mail. According to the SSA, this decision is all about security, speed, and cost savings.
Here is why this change matters:
- Paper checks are 16 times more likely to be lost or stolen than electronic payments
- Electronic transfers are faster, meaning no more waiting for checks in the mail
- The government saves money — about 50 cents per check vs. 15 cents for a direct deposit
In a statement, the SSA said, “By switching exclusively to electronic Social Security payments, we seek to improve efficiency and security, and ensure that beneficiaries receive their monthly benefits.”
How many people are still getting paper checks?
You may be surprised to hear how few Americans are still receiving paper checks. According to official SSA data:
- Only about 512,690 people (roughly 0.8% of all Social Security recipients) were still getting checks by mail in 2024
- That means over 67 million people are already using direct deposit or the Direct Express® card
So if you are part of that small group still relying on mailed checks, now is the time to make the switch.
What is the deadline to switch to direct deposit?
The deadline is September 30, 2025. If you do not switch by then, you risk missing your Social Security payments — including up to $5,108 in total annual benefits for some recipients.
You should have already received (or will soon receive) a notice in the mail with instructions. Do not ignore it. If you lose out on even one payment, it could create financial stress, especially for those on a fixed income.
What are your options for receiving payments?
You have two main ways to continue receiving your Social Security benefits without any delays:
- Direct Deposit
- Set this up through your bank or credit union
- You will need your account and routing numbers
- Payments will be deposited directly into your checking or savings account
- Set this up through your bank or credit union
- Direct Express® Card
- A prepaid debit card from the federal government
- Designed for people who do not have a bank account
- Monthly payments are automatically loaded onto the card
- You can use it like a regular debit card for purchases, cash withdrawals, and more
- A prepaid debit card from the federal government
Both options are safe, free, and easy to manage.
How to switch your payments step-by-step
If you are not sure how to make the switch, do not worry. Here is a simple guide:
- Look out for a notice from the SSA with details and instructions
- Visit the official SSA website or call your local Social Security office
- Choose between Direct Deposit or the Direct Express® card
- Follow the steps to register your preferred payment method
- Confirm the change has been made before the September 30 deadline
SSA representatives are also available to help walk you through the process.
What happens if you do not act?
If you do not switch from paper checks to electronic payments by September 30, your Social Security payments may be paused or delayed, which could lead to serious financial issues.
Whether you are getting retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, taking action now ensures you do not miss out on what you are owed — up to $5,108 per year, depending on your benefits.
