by Kandiss Edwards
The Social Security Administration will no longer send physical checks to benefit recipients, citing the need to modernize its payment approach.
On July 14, the SSA released an announcement via the Social Security Matters blog announcing the change. The agency claims less than 1% of recipients will be affected. Though, as benefits are mostly claimed by the elderly, the change may be challenging for some who are not technologically savvy. The SSA offers both a direct deposit option and a pre-paid “Direct Express” card, which is provided specifically for the purpose of receiving federal payments.
The administration states the change will have multiple benefits for Americans recipients and the federal government to include: Speed and efficiency since Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs) are processed more quickly than paper checks; cost savings from paper check cost of about fifty cents to EFT that cost less than fifteen cents; and enhanced security from paper checks being lost or stolen.
The SSA touts the decision as an efficient way to handle American funds. However, the form of payment is not the only barrier recipients are facing. In the first quarter of 2025, the administration closed dozens of in-person SSA offices by order of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Now, the already burdened system is facing long call wait times or no response when attempting to seek guidance from an SSA professional. The organizations cite a lack of personnel for the ineffective operation
Americans on Social Security are encouraged to enroll in either option at ssa.gov/myaccount/, direct deposit or “Direct Express,” as soon as possible to avoid a delay in monthly payments.
