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10mo ago

SSA Will Continue Paper Checks for Beneficiaries Without Digital Access

Pressure from Senator Elizabeth Warren prompted the reversal to ensure no beneficiary lacking electronic access is cut off

An opened envelope with the return address showing the U.S. Department of the Treasury lies on top of a An opened envelope with the return address showing the U.S. Department of the Treasury lies on top of a United States government Treasury Check. The distinctive green checks feature an engraving of the Statue of Liberty and the Treasury Seal. The government checks are used to disburse income tax refunds as well as Social Security and Medicare benefits.. The distinctive green checks feature an engraving of the Statue of Liberty and the Treasury Seal. The government checks are used to disburse income tax refunds as well as Social Security and Medicare benefits.
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Overview

  • President Trump’s March executive order requires all federal benefits to shift to electronic transfers by September 30, 2025, allowing only limited exceptions.
  • On July 25, the SSA formally abandoned its plan to eliminate paper checks, committing to continue mailing them for those unable to use digital payment methods.
  • Fewer than 1 percent of Social Security beneficiaries still receive paper checks, chiefly due to lack of bank accounts or difficulties with technology.
  • The SSA will keep offering technical support through its My Social Security platform to help underbanked and technology-limited recipients enroll in direct deposit.
  • Treasury data show electronic payments cost under 15 cents each compared to about 50 cents for paper checks and are 16 times less likely to be lost, stolen, or altered.