The government has made a big change in how Social Security payments will be made. Starting September 30, 2025, all Social Security and federal payments will only be given through digital methods like direct deposit, debit cards, or digital wallets.
Paper checks will no longer be sent out at all. This change comes as part of a new executive order to modernise the way Social Security works and make the payment system faster and safer.
While more than 99% of people already receive their benefits electronically, there are still around 521,000 people who get their payments by paper check. If you’re one of them, it’s important to act now to avoid missing your payments after the deadline.
Why Is This Change Happening?
The main reason for this move is to improve speed, reduce fraud, and save costs. Electronic payments are:
Quicker than mailing checks
Safer and more reliable
Easier to track and manage
Paper checks are more likely to be lost, delayed, or stolen. So, the government is switching completely to digital methods.
What Happens If You Don’t Switch in Time?
If you don’t change your payment method by September 30, 2025, you will not receive your Social Security payments. There will be no exceptions, as the federal government will not issue paper checks after this date.
To keep getting your benefits, you must choose a digital option and inform the Social Security Administration (SSA) in time.
How to Switch Your Social Security Payment to Digital
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you switch from paper checks to electronic payments.
Step 1: Choose Your New Payment Method
You can pick from one of the following:
Direct Deposit
Money goes straight to your bank or credit union account.
You need your bank account number and 9-digit routing number.
Direct Express Debit Card
Great for those who don’t have a bank account.
SSA will load your benefits on a prepaid card every month.
Digital Wallet or Real-Time Payment Apps
Options like PayPal or Venmo may be allowed.
Check with SSA for the approved list.
Step 2: Gather the Required Information
Before contacting SSA, have the following ready:
Your Social Security number
Your bank details (for direct deposit)
A valid ID (if visiting in person)
If you choose the Direct Express card, you don’t need bank details—SSA will handle the setup.
Step 3: Update Your Payment Information with SSA
You can do this in three ways:
Online:
Visit ssa.gov/myaccount
Log in or create an account
Go to “Benefits and Payments” → “Update Direct Deposit”
Enter your bank or card information
Phone:
Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778
Share your details with the representative
In Person:
Visit your nearest SSA office (find locations at ssa.gov/locator)
Bring your ID, Social Security number, and bank or card details
Step 4: Confirm the Change
Once you’ve updated your information, check:
Your my Social Security account to see if your new method is active
With your bank or card provider to ensure payments are being received
Who Is Being Contacted by SSA?
SSA is already reaching out to people who still receive paper checks. If you’re one of the 521,000 individuals, expect communication from SSA offering help to switch.
Don’t wait—act early to avoid payment issues.
With the complete shift to digital payments by September 30, 2025, it’s crucial to make the change as soon as possible. Paper checks are becoming a thing of the past, and switching to an electronic method ensures you’ll get your money safely and on time.
The SSA has made it easy to update your payment method, whether online, by phone, or in person. Take action now to stay worry-free and continue receiving your Social Security benefits without any disruption.
