The Social Security Administration (SSA) made a crucial announcement on July 1, 2025, that could impact many beneficiaries who still rely on paper checks for their Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. While millions of people received their payments through electronic methods, 521,000 beneficiaries who still receive paper checks were left facing a delayed wait due to limitations with the US Postal Service (USPS).
Delays and Impact on Vulnerable Groups
These beneficiaries include senior citizens, people with disabilities, and families with children living in extreme poverty. The USPS is facing internal restructuring and delays, which has resulted in an extended wait of up to three business days for some recipients, especially in New York and Los Angeles. For these vulnerable groups, even a one-day delay can lead to serious consequences, including going without essential food and medicine.
“The people who need these benefits most are also the most affected by any delay,” warns Susan Halberg, an analyst at the Center for Retirement Policy.
Upcoming Changes: Paper Checks to be Eliminated
The SSA has been working for years to encourage beneficiaries to switch to electronic payments, and the deadline for those still receiving paper checks is quickly approaching. Starting September 30, 2025, paper checks will be eliminated for the majority of SSI recipients, with limited exceptions.
What You Must Do
Switch to electronic payments now: Direct deposit is mandatory for all new beneficiaries since 2013, and it currently covers 99% of all SSI payments.
How to switch: You can change your payment method through the SSA’s website at ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a local office.
Request a waiver: If you insist on receiving paper checks, you must request a waiver before September 30, 2025. Failing to do so could result in delays or being left unprotected without your monthly payments.
A Postal System Under Pressure
The USPS is already under strain due to budget cuts and logistical challenges, which have led to delays in delivery. SSI recipients have faced waits of up to five days in areas across the Midwest, with replacements for lost checks sometimes taking weeks.
Community Support to Help with Transition
As the deadline looms, community organizations are stepping up to assist those who still rely on paper checks. In Cleveland, volunteers are helping migrants set up Direct Express card accounts, and in Phoenix, senior centers are offering workshops on digital banking and setting up electronic payments.
“It’s a race against time,” admits María López, a social worker in Phoenix. “September will come quickly.”
Remaining SSI Payment Schedule for 2025
For those already transitioning to digital payments or who are not affected by this change, the SSA has confirmed the following payment schedule for the remainder of 2025:
August 2025: Payments will be issued on Friday, August 1.
September 2025: Payments will be issued on Monday, September 1.
October 2025: Payments will be issued on Wednesday, October 1.
November 2025: Payments will be issued on Friday, October 31, as November 1 is a Saturday.
December 2025: Payments will be issued on Monday, December 1.
The January 2026 payment will be issued on Wednesday, January 31.
