In March 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) successfully sent out retirement, SSI, SSDI, and survivors’ benefits on time, with no delays. Nearly 70 million Americans rely on these payments, most of which are now deposited electronically.
But now, the government has made a big change—starting September 30, 2025, paper checks will no longer be sent for Social Security and other federal payments. This move comes after an executive order signed by Donald Trump on March 25, 2025.
Let’s break down what this means for you.
Goodbye to Paper Checks: Everything Is Going Digital
Under the new rule, the U.S. government will stop mailing paper checks for all federal payments, including:
- Social Security benefits
- SSI and SSDI payments
- Tax refunds
- Vendor payments
Instead, all payments will be made through:
- Direct deposit
- Prepaid government cards
- Other digital payment methods
The government says this switch will save money, reduce fraud, and speed up payments. In 2024 alone, keeping the check system cost over $657 million.
Who Still Gets Paper Checks?
Today, around 456,000 Social Security beneficiaries still get paper checks, which is only 0.7% of total recipients. If you’re one of them, don’t worry—but you will need to act soon.
Exceptions Exist, But You Must Prove It
You can still receive paper checks if:
- You don’t have a bank account
- You live in a remote area without internet or banking
- You’re facing a personal emergency or severe difficulty using digital tools
But to qualify for these exceptions, you’ll need to apply and submit documentation showing your situation.
Seniors May Face Challenges—Here’s What to Do
While this change will help the system run better, it might create problems for elderly beneficiaries, especially those in rural or remote areas or those unfamiliar with technology.
What You Should Do Now
If you currently receive paper checks:
- Watch out for letters or emails from SSA or the Treasury
- Don’t ignore official messages—these will guide you through the transition
- Choose a digital method:
- Direct deposit to your bank account is fastest and most common
- Or opt for a government-issued prepaid card
Do your research and pick what works best for your lifestyle.
April 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
If you’re waiting for your April benefits, here’s the official payment calendar:
April 3, 2025 (Thursday)
For those who started receiving benefits before May 1997
April 9, 2025 (Second Wednesday)
For those born between the 1st and 10th and who started benefits after April 1997
April 15, 2025 (Tuesday)
For birthdays between the 11th and 20th—normally paid on April 16, but moved up because April 16 is Emancipation Day, a public holiday in Washington D.C.
April 23, 2025 (Fourth Wednesday)
For those born between the 21st and 31st of any month.