The U.S. Department of the Treasury has announced that the federal government will stop issuing paper checks for most federal payments beginning September 30, 2025. This change affects recipients of federal benefit checks, such as Social Security and Veterans benefits, who are still receiving payments by mail.
“Reducing paper checks has been a longstanding bipartisan goal that our administration is finally putting into action. Thanks to President Trump, this will help reduce fraud and theft. It will also remove delays that prevent hardworking Americans from receiving their vital payments,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent.
Most Americans already receive their federal benefit payments electronically and do not need to take any further action. Those who continue to receive paper checks are encouraged to switch to direct deposit by contacting the agency responsible for their benefits, enrolling online at GoDirect.gov, or calling the Electronic Payment Solution Center at 800-967-6857 during business hours.
For individuals without a bank account, resources are available through FDIC: GetBanked or MyCreditUnion.gov to help open an account. Alternatively, beneficiaries can enroll in the Direct Express Debit Mastercard program, which allows them to receive monthly benefit payments electronically without needing a traditional bank account.
The Treasury also warns about government impersonation scams and advises recipients to verify any requests by contacting agencies directly using trusted sources such as official websites or phone numbers.
According to the Treasury Department, direct deposit offers a safer and faster way for beneficiaries to receive their funds compared to paper checks.
