Paper Social Security Checks Ending September 30th, 2025
If you currently receive your Social Security or SSI benefits by paper check, it’s important to know that after September 30, 2025, paper checks will no longer be issued. From that date forward, all benefits will only be delivered electronically, either through direct deposit to a bank account or onto a prepaid Direct Express debit card.
While the Social Security Administration (SSA) points to cost savings and fraud prevention as reasons for this change, many advocates are raising serious concerns about how it will affect people with disabilities, older adults, and others who rely on paper checks. For many, paper checks are not just a payment method — they are a trusted, accessible, and familiar lifeline.
Here are some of the biggest concerns experts have raised:
Loss of Access: Not everyone has a bank account, smartphone, or internet connection. Without those, electronic-only payments can be very difficult to manage.
Digital Divide: People living with disabilities or without stable housing often face barriers to online systems, and many simply don’t use digital banking.
Risk of Being Left Behind: Some beneficiaries may not even be aware of this change until their paper check no longer arrives in October. Navigating the enrollment process may also be overwhelming for those already managing complex health or life challenges.
What You Need to Do Before September 30
If you or someone you care for still receives a paper Social Security check, action is required now to make sure benefits aren’t disrupted:
Direct Deposit – If you have a checking or savings account, you can sign up for direct deposit through your bank or your my Social Security account.
Direct Express Card – If you don’t have a bank account, you can call 1-800-333-1795 or visit www.usdirectexpress.com to sign up for this prepaid debit card.
Waivers – In very limited cases, such as for people over 90, those with certain medical conditions, or those living in remote areas without electronic banking access, a waiver may be possible.
Take Action
If you are impacted by this change, please take steps immediately to protect your access to benefits. If you need help navigating the process, reach out to the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY option 1-800-325-0778) or to your counselor at The Choice Group- we're here to help!
The deadline is quickly approaching, and missing it could mean delays in receiving the funds you rely on. Please don’t wait — make sure your payment method is updated before September 30.
