As of September 30, 2025, all federal payments, including Social Security, must be made by electronic means such as direct deposit, debit card, digital wallet, or real-time payment. No paper checks will be issued at all. This change is part of an executive order that will improve the way Social Security works.
Less than 1 percent of people who get benefits today get their Social Security benefits in paper checks. The SSA has already reached out to them and is helping them switch to electronic payments, such as direct deposit or Direct Express cards.
How to switch Social Security payments to digital ways
Recipients who still get paper checks will need to act before September 30, 2025, or they will not get their payment. Failure to do this procedure will result in the interruption of payments, as paper checks will no longer be issued after this date per the executive order mandating electronic federal payments.
The SSA is reaching out to the less than 1% of beneficiaries still using checks to assist with the switch. To avoid disruptions, affected recipients should contact the SSA or visit ssa.gov to set up an electronic payment method as soon as possible. As of July 2025, around 521,00 Americans still claimed their payments by paper checks.
To switch to digital means, and keep claiming your benefits, here’s what to do:
- Choose your new method:
- Direct Deposit: Funds go directly to your bank or credit union account. You’ll need your bank’s routing number and account number.
- Direct Express Debit Card: A prepaid card for those without a bank account. Funds are loaded monthly, and you can use it like a debit card.
- Digital Wallet or Real-Time Payment: Options like PayPal, Venmo, or other instant payment apps may be available. Check with the SSA for approved platforms.
- Gather information for the SSA:
- Have your Social Security number and personal details ready.
- For direct deposit, get your bank’s routing number (9 digits) and account number from a check or your bank.
- For Direct Express, no bank account is needed; the SSA will set up the card for you.
- Update your information to the SSA:
- Online: Log in or create a “my Social Security” account at ssa.gov/myaccount. Go to the “Benefits and Payments” section, select “Update Direct Deposit,” and enter your bank or Direct Express details. This is the fastest method.
- Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.) or TTY 1-800-325-0778 for hearing-impaired. Provide your details to a representative.
- In Person: Visit your local SSA office (find locations at ssa.gov/locator). Bring ID, Social Security number, and bank details or request a Direct Express card.
After updating, confirm with the SSA or your bank that the new payment method is ready to use. You can check your “my Social Security” account or call the SSA to verify.
