Social Security Ends Paper Checks by Year-End, June 11

The Social Security Administration will stop issuing paper checks by the end of 2026, completing a transition mandated by President Trump’s March 2025 executive order. As of June 2026, fewer than 1% of beneficiaries still receive paper checks. The shift aims to cut costs, reduce fraud, and improve security. Recipients who still get checks must switch to direct deposit or a prepaid debit card.

Why the SSA is ending paper checks

The move stems from Executive Order 14247, signed in March 2025, requiring federal agencies to issue most payments electronically. The Trump administration cited cost and security concerns. Printing and mailing a paper check costs $3.07 per payment, roughly 20 times more than electronic transfers. Federal agencies spent over $657 million in fiscal year 2024 maintaining systems to process paper records and payments. Paper checks are 16 times more likely to be lost, stolen, altered, or returned undeliverable than electronic payments, the SSA said.

How to switch to electronic payments

Recipients can sign into their personal my Social Security account online and add direct deposit information. Those without a bank account can enroll in the Direct Express prepaid debit card program at GoDirect.gov or by calling 1-800-967-6857. The SSA offers tech support Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET for those who need help. Recipients can switch online through their my Social Security account.

Exemptions and waivers available

The executive order allows exemptions for recipients facing hardship. Those without access to banking services, living in remote areas, or facing mental health challenges may qualify for waivers. Emergency situations, law enforcement cases, and national security cases also qualify. Recipients can request a waiver through the U.S. Treasury’s Bureau of Fiscal Service website. Waivers are available for qualifying hardships.

Who is affected and what happens next

Most beneficiaries already receive electronic payments and will see no change. The transition affects Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Insurance, and other federal payments. Paper checks will no longer be issued after December 31, 2026. The SSA is urging the fewer than 1% of recipients still receiving checks to act now to avoid service interruptions.

Final Thoughts

Social Security will end paper checks by December 2026, saving taxpayers millions annually and reducing fraud risk. Most beneficiaries already use electronic payments, but the remaining 1% must switch to direct deposit or prepaid debit cards to continue receiving benefits uninterrupted.

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The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.