Social Security to end paper checks Sept. 30 for direct pay.

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Starting September 30, the Social Security Administration will cease mailing paper checks to beneficiaries.

This change is a result of an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on March 25, mandating all federal payments, including Social Security benefits, tax refunds, and intragovernmental payments, to be made electronically. The order highlighted paper checks as costly, inefficient, and vulnerable to fraud, theft, and lost payments. Transitioning to direct payments was deemed to enhance efficiency, reduce expenses, and bolster the security of federal payments.

As per the latest data from the SSA, approximately 400,000 Social Security recipients, which is less than 1% of the nearly 69 million beneficiaries, still receive paper checks. While most federal payments are already electronically issued, older Americans, who make up the majority of Social Security recipients, tend to rely more on traditional paper payments than electronic alternatives.

However, exceptions will be accommodated. In a press release dated July 23, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren stated that SSA Commissioner Frank Bisignano assured that beneficiaries requiring paper checks will still have access to them. The initial focus will be on individuals with checking accounts, with a commitment from Bisignano that no one will be left behind.

While the SSA has not issued an official public statement, a spokesperson informed Money.com via email on August 4 that the agency is actively reaching out to beneficiaries still receiving paper checks to inform them of the change and guide them on enrolling in direct deposit or obtaining a Direct Express card, a prepaid debit card facilitating access to federal benefits without a bank account.

According to the Treasury Department, exceptions for continuing paper checks will be granted only under three circumstances: beneficiaries with mental impairments hindering electronic payment management, residents of remote areas lacking electronic banking infrastructure, or individuals aged 90 or above. All others will be required to switch to electronic payments.

Options for Paper Check Recipients

Recipients believing they qualify for a waiver can request an application via the U.S. Treasury Electronic Payment Solution waiver line at 1-855-290-1545. They can also print and complete the online waiver form and mail it to the indicated address.

Conversely, beneficiaries currently receiving Social Security benefits or Supplemental Security Income via paper check can sign up for electronic payments online through the Treasury’s GoDirect website. They can also enroll by mailing a direct deposit form or by calling 1-877-874-6347.