A major Social Security change takes effect on September 30. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop sending paper checks. All recipients must switch to an electronic payment method. This new rule affects retirement, SSI, and SSDI benefits. President Trump ordered the change to modernize federal payments.
How to Switch to Electronic Payments
Recipients have two main options to get their benefits. They can sign up for direct deposit to a bank account. This includes checking, savings, or some fintech accounts. The second option is the Direct Express Debit Card. The SSA loads funds onto this card each month. Recipients can make the change on the SSA website or by phone.
Benefit Payments May Be Delayed
Recipients must act by the September 30 deadline. The SSA warns it could delay payments for those who do not switch. The agency will hold benefits until a recipient provides electronic payment information. The U.S. Treasury may grant some exceptions for extreme hardship. However, recipients must apply for these exceptions.
Why the SSA is Making This Change
The government is ending paper checks to reduce fraud and costs. An executive order aims to make federal payments more secure. According to government data, paper checks are much more likely to be lost or stolen. Electronic payments provide a faster and safer way for recipients to access their money.
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