Social Security benefits in the US are transitioning fully to electronic payments (direct deposit or debit card), with paper checks largely phased out.

Key Update (as of June 2026)

• Federal law and Executive Order 14247 require electronic payments for all federal benefits, including Social Security and SSI.15
• The deadline for the full transition was September 30, 2025. After this date, the SSA no longer issues paper checks for most recipients.3
• Nearly all beneficiaries already receive payments electronically. Those still on paper checks needed to switch to avoid delays or interruptions.14

Options for electronic payments:

1. Direct Deposit into a bank account (preferred — safe, quick, and convenient).
2. Direct Express® Debit Mastercard® (for those without a traditional bank account).46

How to Set Up or Update Direct Deposit

• Fastest way: Sign in to your free my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount and update your bank info online.47
• Other options:
• Contact your bank (some use Automated Enrollment).
• Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
• Visit a local SSA office (appointment recommended).
• For Direct Express: Call 1-800-333-1795.46

Note on recent changes: SSA has tightened security for direct deposit updates (e.g., stronger identity verification, limited phone changes in some cases) to combat fraud. Online or in-person methods are emphasized.25

Exemptions

In rare cases, the U.S. Treasury may grant waivers for paper checks. Contact Treasury at 1-855-290-1545 or 1-877-874-6347 for details.46

Additional Resources

• Official SSA Direct Deposit page: ssa.gov/deposit
• Update Direct Deposit: ssa.gov/manage-benefits/update-direct-deposit
• my Social Security account: Create one for managing benefits, tax forms (1099), verification letters, etc.
• Treasury Go Direct: godirect.gov

Payments continue on the regular schedule (based on your birth date or benefit type). Check your my Social Security account for personalized info. If you haven’t switched yet and are still receiving checks (or facing issues), act quickly by setting up electronic payments.3

For the most accurate personal advice, visit SSA.gov or call them directly, as individual situations vary.

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