The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that paper checks will be eliminated effective September 30, 2025, affecting nearly 500,000 Americans who still rely on mailed payments. The decision is aimed at reducing fraud, delays, and operational costs, but it also means beneficiaries must take action to ensure they continue receiving their funds on time.
What You Can Do to Avoid Payment Disruptions
To avoid any interruptions to your Social Security benefits, you must switch to electronic payments. Here are the steps to ensure you stay on track:
Activate Direct Deposit:
You can set up direct deposit into your bank account by:
Visiting your “my Social Security” account online.Calling 1‑800‑772‑1213.Submitting Form SSA-1199A.The online method is the fastest way to update your payment details without needing to visit a physical office.
Request a Direct Express Card:
If you don’t have a bank account, you can request a Direct Express card. This debit card is designed to receive federal payments directly and is an excellent alternative for those without traditional banking.
Verify Your Identity:
You’ll need to create a “my Social Security” account or visit a local SSA office to verify your identity. This step is essential to complete the electronic transition and confirm your eligibility for payments.
Why You Should Act Now
Approximately 456,000 people still receive paper checks, and after the September 30, 2025 deadline, those who haven’t switched to electronic payments will experience delays. Electronic deposits ensure that your funds arrive securely and on time, without the risk of lost, misplaced, or stolen checks.
The SSA has also improved identity verification measures to prevent fraud. With electronic deposits, changes to your payment details are processed in one business day, a significant improvement over the weeks-long process for paper checks.
July Social Security Payment Schedule
For those receiving Social Security payments, here’s the July 2025 payment schedule:
July 9, 2025: Payments for beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
July 16, 2025: Payments for beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
July 23, 2025: Payments for beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
Payments will be made via direct deposit by 9 a.m. local time, and mailed checks may take 1-3 days to arrive.
2025 Maximum Benefit Amounts
In 2025, the maximum monthly Social Security benefits are:
$4,018 for those retiring at full retirement age (around 67).
$5,108 for those who delay retirement until age 70.
$2,831 for those retiring at age 62.
The average monthly benefit for retirees in 2025 is $1,976, following a 2.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), which aims to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation.
What to Do If Your Payment Doesn’t Show Up
If your Social Security payment doesn’t show up on the expected date, here’s what you should do:
Verify the scheduled deposit date based on your birthdate.
Check your bank account or Direct Express® card for pending transactions.
If you don’t see the funds after three business days, you can:
Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
Visit your local SSA office.
Make sure your direct deposit details are up-to-date in your “my Social Security” account. If your check is lost or stolen, report it immediately to prevent fraud and keep records of all communications.
