The short answer: Social Security is moving away from paper checks. The agency says it plans to finish the switch to electronic payments by the end of 2026. If you still get a paper check, switch to direct deposit now. It takes about 10 minutes and it is free. If you do not have a bank account, you can use a prepaid card called Direct Express instead.
What Is Changing
A federal order signed in March 2025 (Executive Order 14247) says federal payments should be electronic. Its start date was September 30, 2025. Social Security has been contacting people who still get paper checks. It says it will finish the move to electronic payments by the end of 2026. (Sources: The Spokesman-Review and CPA Practice Advisor.)
This covers Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. If your money already goes straight into a bank account, you do not need to do anything.
Why the change? Social Security says paper checks are about 16 times more likely to be lost or stolen than electronic payments. A check costs about 50 cents to send, and a direct deposit costs less than 15 cents. (Source: Fox Business.)
Some news stories do not agree on exact dates. If you get a paper check, do not wait to see what happens. Switch now so your money does not stop.
How to Switch to Direct Deposit
Pick the way that feels easiest for you.
- Online: Sign in to (or create) your my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount. Add your bank account details.
- Through your bank: Ask your bank or credit union to send your direct deposit information to Social Security. Bring your account and routing numbers.
- No bank account? Sign up for the Direct Express prepaid debit card at godirect.gov. Your money is loaded onto the card each month.
If you would rather talk to a person, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office. Have your Social Security number and your bank information handy.
What If I Cannot Use Direct Deposit?
A small number of people may qualify for an exception. Social Security says this is for "extremely rare circumstances." To ask, call the U.S. Treasury at 855-290-1545. (Source: CPA Practice Advisor.)
Why This Matters Even More in Florida
Hurricanes can knock out mail service for days or weeks. A check in a mailbox is easy to lose, and a flooded street can keep the mail truck away. Federal emergency planners tell older adults to use direct deposit or Direct Express so they can still get money after a storm. (Source: Ready.gov.) See our late-season hurricane plan for Florida seniors for more.
Watch Out for Scams
News like this gives scammers a new story. Watch for these red flags:
- A caller, text or email says you must "confirm" your bank account or you will lose your benefits.
- Someone asks you to pay a fee to switch to direct deposit. Switching is free.
- A message pushes you to act right now or asks for gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
The safest move is to start the switch yourself, using the website or phone number above. Do not use a number from a text or an email. Read more in our scam alert for Florida seniors.
Helping a Parent Switch
If you are an adult child, sit with your parent while they switch. A parent can sign in to their own my Social Security account with you beside them. Never share a password or a one-time code with someone who called you. If your parent has a representative payee (a person or group that manages their benefits), check with Social Security about who should make the change.
Where to Get Free Help
- Social Security: 1-800-772-1213, or ssa.gov
- U.S. Treasury (exception requests): 855-290-1545
- Florida Elder Helpline from the Florida Department of Elder Affairs: 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337). Staff can point you to your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
- Local help: Many libraries and senior centers have volunteers who help with online accounts. Browse the senior benefits page, the senior assistance programs page and the Florida senior resource directory.
- Report a scam: Florida Attorney General 1-866-9NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226)
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns, a financial advisor for financial planning, and an attorney for legal matters. The resources and programs mentioned are subject to eligibility requirements and availability, which may vary. While we strive for accuracy, the information provided may not reflect the most recent updates. Always verify details with official sources or professionals before making decisions based on this content.