Overview

• Beneficiaries still receiving paper checks are instructed to switch to direct deposit or the Treasury’s Direct Express card via GoDirect.gov or by calling 800-967-6857.
• Fewer than 1% of roughly 70 million Social Security recipients still get paper checks, with about 400,000 issued this month, according to the agency.
• SSA says paper checks will continue only where no other payment method is feasible, and Treasury outlines waiver criteria such as remote locations, age 90 or older, or mental impairment.
• Most VA benefits are already electronic, and the department notes some veterans may still receive checks as required by law, according to a VA spokesperson.
• SSA and Treasury report notices and check inserts have been sent to remaining paper-check recipients, while advocates warn new electronic users could face access hurdles or phishing scams and Treasury reviews waiver guidance.