Social Security is Now Paperless. Anyone Who Says Otherwise is a Scammer.
November 2, 2025
Social Security checks have gone paperless.
As of Sept. 30, 2025, the government has mandated that all federal benefit payments, including Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits transition exclusively to electronic methods. Paper checks have been phased out for nearly all federal payments.
If you rely on Social Security payments, you'll need to either have direct deposit set up into your bank account, or get a Direct Express card from the government to avoid payment delays. More on that below.
Be wary of any calls, emails or messages that appear to come from the Social Security Administration (SSA), promising you can still receive a paper check if you just click a link or fill out an online form. Anyone promising this is likely a scammer, looking to steal your identity.
Why did Social Security go paperless?
President Trump issued an executive order back in March, which set the Sept. 30 deadline to end issuance of paper checks. The federal government is making this transition as part of a modernization initiative, driven by both security and efficiency.
1. Eliminating Check Fraud and Theft
Paper checks are easy to lose, steal from the mail, or change illegally. Electronic payments will cut down on mail theft and fraud, making sure your money goes safely into your account every month.
2. Government Efficiency and Cost Savings
Issuing paper checks is costly. The government estimates that switching to electronic payments will save millions of dollars annually. This policy is permanent and backed by federal law.
3. Faster, More Reliable Access
Your funds are deposited directly into your account on the scheduled payment date, without the need to wait for mail delivery or make a trip to the bank, guaranteeing your access to cash is quick and reliable.
How can you receive Social Security payments moving forward?
Federal law requires you to receive your benefits through one of two electronic methods:
- Direct Deposit into your bank account (recommended): This is the easiest, fastest, and most secure option. Your funds go straight into your checking or savings account. With direct deposit, you can manage your money through online banking, mobile apps, and access other services we offer. If you need assistance, contact us today.
- The Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®: This is a prepaid debit card sponsored by the Treasury, designed for federal benefit recipients who may not have a traditional bank account.
To learn how to enroll in direct deposit or obtain a Direct Express card, visit the official, trusted U.S. Treasury site: www.SSA.gov/deposit. Any other website promising to help you change your Social Security payment information is likely a scam.
Watch out for Social Security scammers
As Social Security transitions to paperless payments, it's important be vigilant against scammers.
Never give your bank account number, Social Security Number, or other personal information to anyone who calls, emails, or texts you claiming to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA) demanding immediate action or payment related to this change.
The government will not call you demanding or enticing you to switch to a specific payment method, or threatening to suspend your benefits. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and call the official SSA number or contact the Bank immediately.