Social Security beneficiaries will soon stop receiving paper checks as part of the Trump’s administration’s efforts to modernize the federal benefits payments system. The change concerns 0.8% of beneficiaries, which corresponds to over half a million recipients, according to CNN. The change will go into effect on September 30.
Why will Social Security stop delivering paper checks?
“This change is part of a broader government-wide initiative to modernize payment systems and enhance service delivery,” the Social Security Administration indicated in a statement. “By moving to electronic payments exclusively, we aim to improve efficiency, security, and ensure beneficiaries receive their monthly benefits promptly.”
The change will help save money, as paper checks cost about 50 cents each as opposed to electronic funds that cost less than 15 cents, CNN reported.
“Paper checks are increasingly the front door for fraud,” the Treasury added, per CNN. “Treasury is committed to raising awareness of the growing fraud risks associated with paper checks and providing Americans with the knowledge and tools to fight financial fraud and make informed financial decisions.”
What you need to do if you rely on paper checks for Social Security
Beneficiaries of paper checks should pick an alternative. They can either have their payment delivered electronically by direct deposit, or receive payment via Direct Express, a pre-paid debit card.
You may qualify for a waiver
In some instances, beneficiaries may apply to keep receiving paper checks. You may apply if “electronic payments would impose a hardship due to a mental impairment,” if you live “in a remote geographic location lacking the infrastructure to support electronic financial transactions” or if you are aged 90 or older.
A section on the GoDirect website indicated how beneficiaries can apply for a waiver. You may contact the Waiver Line at the US Treasury Electronic Payment Solution, at 1-855-290-1545, in order to request a waiver application. You may also apply by mailing in this form.
“SSA is proactively contacting those beneficiaries to alert them about the change and the process to enroll in direct deposit or receive Direct Express cards,” a spokesperson for Social Security told CNN. “Where a beneficiary has no other means to receive payment, we will continue to issue paper checks.”
