Beginning Sept. 30, the federal government will stop issuing paper checks for nearly all payments, including Social Security benefits and tax refunds.
The change comes after President Donald Trump signed an executive order earlier this year directing agencies to transition entirely to electronic payments.
“Reducing paper checks has been a longstanding bipartisan goal that our administration is finally putting into action,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement. “Thanks to President Trump, this will help to reduce fraud and theft.” It will also eliminate the delays that keep hardworking Americans from receiving their necessary payments.”
Most Americans now receive their federal benefits electronically, but officials estimate that approximately 500,000 people — less than 1% of Social Security recipients — still use paper checks.
Individuals must now register for direct deposit or the Treasury-sponsored Direct Express debit card.
Electronic payments are thought to be more cost-effective and secure. According to the Treasury Department, issuing a paper check costs about 50 cents, whereas making a direct deposit costs less than 15 cents. Paper checks are also 16 times more likely to become lost or stolen.
Beneficiaries can switch by enrolling online at GoDirect.gov, calling the Electronic Payment Solution Center at 800-967-6857, or contacting the agency that sends them their payments.
Those who do not have a bank account can open one through the FDIC’s GetBanked website or by using the Direct Express card.
The change also affects tax refunds and other federal payments.
The Internal Revenue Service, Veterans Affairs, and the Social Security Administration have been directed to fully transition to electronic payments. Exceptions will be made in limited circumstances, such as emergencies or when banking services are unavailable.
Officials claim that the switch will save taxpayers millions of dollars per year while ensuring faster and safer delivery of federal funds.
What you need to know about the end of paper checks
Who is affected?
About 500,000 people — less than 1% of Social Security recipients — still receive paper checks.
If you already get direct deposit or use the Direct Express card, you do not need to do anything.
When does the change happen?
Sept. 30, 2025. After that date, the federal government will no longer send most paper checks.
What payments are included?
Social Security
Veterans benefits
IRS tax refunds
Other federal benefit payments
Why is this happening?
Direct deposit is faster, safer and less likely to be lost or stolen. Paper checks cost more money to process — 50 cents per check, compared to less than 15 cents for an electronic funds transfer, according to the Treasury Department..
What should I do if I still get a paper check?
Direct deposit: Contact the agency that pays your benefits or enroll online at GoDirect.gov.
Contact the Electronic Payment Solution Center at 1-800-967-6857.
No bank account? You can open one through the FDIC’s GetBanked or MyCreditUnion.gov. Alternatively, sign up for a Direct Express Debit Mastercard to accept payments electronically.
Are there exceptions?
Yes, in rare cases such as emergencies or if banking services are truly unavailable.
Important reminder:
Always be wary of scammers. If someone contacts you about changing your payment method, confirm the request by calling your agency directly or speaking with a trusted friend, family member, or your bank.
