Archive · 30 Sep 2025
Social Security Ends Paper Checks: September 30 Deadline
Starting September 30, Social Security will no longer send paper checks.
This change, ordered in 2025, is happening because mailing checks is slow and risky.
Instead, people will get their money electronically, either directly deposited into a bank account or onto a prepaid debit card.
If you're used to paper checks, you must choose one of the new options to keep receiving your benefits.
This change aims to speed up payments, make them safer, and reduce delays.
If you need help setting things up, the SSA is available to assist.
Social Security paper checks end on September 30.
The change is based on a 2025 executive order to move to electronic payments.
Recipients must choose direct deposit or a Direct Express debit card.
The move aims to speed up payments and reduce fraud.
Temporary checks will no longer be issued for new claims.
- Who
- Social Security recipients
- What
- Ending paper checks
- When
- Starting September 30
- Where
- N/A
- Why
- To reduce costs, delays, and fraud, as per executive order
- Deadline
- September 30
- Change Initiated By
- Executive order (March 2025)
- Alternatives
- Direct deposit or Direct Express card
- Direct Deposit Setup
- my Social Security online account
- Direct Express Card Enrollment
- 1-800-333-1795 or www.usdirectexpress.com