If you're an American looking forward to retirement or already done with working -- and you like the sturdy feel and security of a paper check -- beware: The Trump administration is discontinuing paper checks for Social Security beneficiaries.
The White House says the change is to modernize federal benefits payments. In its new order, it also says electronic delivery helps to cut down on the risk of mail fraud.
"The continued use of paper-based payments by the Federal Government, including checks and money orders, flowing into and out of the United States General Fund, which might be thought of as America’s bank account, imposes unnecessary costs; delays; and risks of fraud, lost payments, theft, and inefficiencies," the order says. "Mail theft complaints have increased substantially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Historically, Department of the Treasury checks are 16 times more likely to be reported lost or stolen, returned undeliverable, or altered than an electronic funds transfer."
The order adds that maintaining the physical infrastructure and specialized technology for paper cost the American taxpayer over $657 million in 2024 alone.
The change is coming fast as it's effective on September 30, 2025. Going forward, recipients must choose between direct deposit or a pre-paid debit card known as Direct Express to receive their benefits.
But note that if you're in a desperate situation where you have no bank account or other way to electronically receive payment, the Social Security Administration will continue to issue paper checks to beneficiaries who have no other means to receive payment.