For decades, millions of American citizens have received their Social Security benefits by mail. Although the system has worked, it has also shown its limits and vulnerabilities. Now, the federal government has decided to close a chapter and will do so with a measure that will directly impact thousands of people.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced an official change: starting on September 30, 2025, paper payments will no longer exist. This means that no beneficiary will be able to keep receiving physical checks and from that date, payments will be exclusively digital.
A change designed to improve security
The main reason is to reduce the risk of fraud, as paper checks are increasingly vulnerable to theft and counterfeiting. This problem especially affects older adults, who are often victims of check scams or experience delays due to lost mail.
The new rule aims to stop this situation. It is part of a broader executive order that seeks to digitize all government payments. It not only affects Social Security, but also includes tax refunds and other federal benefits.
How does this measure affect beneficiaries?
More than 99% of beneficiaries already use digital methods, but there are still more than 480,000 people who depend on physical checks. Many of them do not have a bank account, while others simply do not trust the digital system. For these people, the change can be complicated, which is why SSA recommends acting in advance.
Those who do not have an account can choose the Direct Express Card, which is a prepaid card with no deposit fees. This card is designed for those who do not use traditional accounts and allows them to receive money securely. It is also possible to inquire about approved digital wallets, and some options are adapted for older adults.
In exceptional cases, alternatives will be considered, but specific details have not been published yet. For now, the recommendation is clear: contact the local Social Security office as soon as possible.
This step will help avoid payment interruptions and will ensure that the transition to the digital system is smooth. The government insists that the change is final. Starting September 30, everything will be electronic.