Attention Social Security recipients! If you're still receiving your payments via paper checks, a significant transformation is on the horizon for you.

Earlier this year, an executive order from President Donald Trump announced a sweeping change: effective September 30, the federal government will halt the issuance of paper checks across various agencies, including the Social Security Administration.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the importance of this change, stating, “This transition to digital payments is a long-awaited bipartisan effort that our administration is finally making a reality. By reducing paper checks, we aim to combat fraud and theft while ensuring that hardworking Americans receive their crucial payments without unnecessary delays.”

Why is this change happening? It all boils down to cost-effectiveness. Sending out a paper check costs approximately 50 cents, while electronic payments only cost about 15 cents. Moreover, paper checks have a staggering likelihood of being lost or stolen—16 times more than electronic alternatives.

What Should You Do If You Still Get Paper Checks?

If you’re one of the estimated 500,000 beneficiaries still relying on paper checks—representing only around 0.8% of recipients—it's time to make a switch to electronic payments.

Already receiving electronic payments? You're all set—no further action needed!

However, for those still tied to the traditional method, here’s what you need to do: start the process to enroll in electronic payments immediately to avoid disruptions in your benefits.