Starting September 30, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop sending Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments by paper check. This means if you are an SSI recipient and haven’t switched to electronic payment methods, your benefits could be delayed or temporarily stopped.
The SSA is urging everyone to act soon, and here’s why this transition is so important and how you can make sure you’re not left behind.
Why Is the Change Happening?
The transition to 100% electronic payments is being made for several important reasons. First, using paper checks carries risks such as lost checks, delays caused by bad weather, or even theft and fraud. These issues can lead to stress and delays in receiving your much-needed payments.
By switching to electronic methods, you won’t have to worry about checks getting lost in the mail or being delayed. Your payment will arrive directly to your bank account, Direct Express Prepaid Card, or a digital wallet (like PayPal or Venmo), making it easier and safer for you to access your funds.
Additionally, this change will help the government save over $657 million each year, which is currently spent on printing, mailing, and processing paper checks. These savings can then be reinvested into improving services that benefit our communities.
What Do SSI Beneficiaries Need to Do?
It’s important that you update your payment information as soon as possible. If you don’t, you could face delayed payments or even temporary suspension of your benefits.
The SSA has made this transition process simple and accessible, even for people who live in areas with limited access to banking services or technology.
There are a few options for receiving your payments electronically:
Direct Deposit: Have your payment sent directly to your bank account.
Direct Express Prepaid Card: A free and easy-to-use card where your payments are automatically deposited each month. This is a good option for those who don’t want to use a bank.
Digital Wallets: If you’re comfortable using technology, you can opt for services like PayPal or Venmo, which can function similarly to a bank account.
If you live in a remote area, are older, or have a disability that prevents you from easily accessing banking or digital services, there are exemptions available. To apply for an exemption, you’ll need to contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 as soon as possible.
How to Update Your Payment Information
Updating your payment method is easy. Here’s how you can do it:
- Choose your payment method: Decide between direct deposit, a Direct Express card, or a digital wallet.
- Update your information:
- Online: Log in to your My Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.
- Phone: Call 1-800-772-1213. They offer services in Spanish and other languages.
- In-person: Visit your local Social Security office for assistance.
SSA agents are available to help you and answer any questions you might have during the process. Don’t wait until the last minute—starting early ensures that everything is set up correctly before the September deadline.
What Happens if You Don’t Update Your Payment Method?
If you don’t switch to an electronic payment method by September 30, 2025, your payment could be delayed for weeks or even paused until you make the necessary update. At a time when every dollar counts, this is something you’ll want to avoid.
It’s important to understand that updating your information may take some time, especially during peak periods. The sooner you act, the smoother the process will be.
To avoid interruptions in your SSI payments, it’s critical that you update your payment method now. Choose the option that works best for you, whether it’s direct deposit, the Direct Express Prepaid Card, or a digital wallet.
If you need help, don’t hesitate to contact the SSA or visit your local office. With the deadline approaching, the sooner you make the change, the better your financial security will be.
