Paper Checks Ending for Social Security and IRS Tax Refunds: How to Prepare

If you receive Social Security benefits, including retirement, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop mailing paper checks. Starting September 30, 2025, all payments will be made electronically, either through direct deposit to a bank account or through a Direct Express® prepaid debit card.

This change is part of a broader shift across federal programs, including IRS tax refunds, following an Executive Order signed in March 2025 that requires all federal benefit payments to be delivered electronically.

Read below to learn what this change means, how to prepare, and where to find help.‍
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What’s Changing?

‍The SSA and IRS are moving to electronic payments. This means:

• IRS Tax Refunds: After late September 2025, tax refunds will be issued electronically only.
• Social Security Benefits: After September 30, 2025, SSA will pay benefits only through direct deposit or a Direct Express® prepaid debit card. In very rare cases, the U.S. Treasury may grant a waiver to the electronic payment requirement. To request a waiver, you can:
  
  • Call 855-290-1545
  • Visit GoDirect.gov to print and submit a waiver form

If you already receive your payment electronically, no action is needed.
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How to Prepare If You Receive Social Security Benefits

1. Choose an Electronic Payment Method

You have two main options:

• Direct Deposit to a Bank Account
  
  If you already have a checking or savings account, you can receive your benefits through direct deposit. You’ll need your routing and account numbers to set this up. If you do not have a bank account, continue reading below for options and support to help you get started.

• Direct Express® Prepaid Debit Card
  
  If opening a bank account is not realistic for you right now, the Direct Express® prepaid debit card is another secure way to receive your payments. Payments are deposited directly onto your card, and you can use it to pay bills, make purchases, or withdraw cash at thousands of locations.

2. Set Up Your Electronic Payment

• Online: Visit GoDirect.gov or ssa.gov/myaccount to enroll.
• By Phone: Call the U.S. Treasury Electronic Payment Solution Center at 1-800-333-1795.
• In Person: Visit your local Social Security Field Office.
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How to Prepare If You File Taxes‍

Read our guide on MyFreeTaxes.org. 

What If You’re New to Banking?

It is understandable if this feels overwhelming, especially if you have relied on paper checks for a long time or are unfamiliar with online systems. Here are some resources that can help.

• Review our resource “How to Open a Bank Account.” This page walks through considerations when choosing an account.
• Explore BankOn to find accounts that meet national standards for low fees and consumer protections.
• Learn more about affordable accounts through FDIC Get Banked.
• Dial 211 if you need help finding local resources or programs that can support you in opening a bank account. While 211 may not have every answer, their specialists are trained to connect you to local programs and organizations that may be able to help.
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Set Next Steps

This change is happening soon, as paper checks will end September 30, 2025. September 30 may feel far off, but the sooner you take action, the less likely you are to experience a disruption in your payments. Setting a SMART goal can help you move forward. Here is an example of how to break it down.

• Specific: Decide which step you want to do first (for example, opening a bank account, calling to request the Direct Express® card., or logging into your IRS account).
• Measurable: Pick something you can clearly complete. For example, gathering your ID and documents to open a banking account or checking what your current payment method is.
• Achievable: Keep it realistic. Choose something you know you can follow through on this week or next.
• Relevant: Focus on what helps you continue receiving your Social Security benefits or being ready before you file without any delays.
• Time-bound: Pick a date to complete that step. For example, “I will open my account or enroll in Direct Express® by September 1” gives you plenty of time before the paper checks end.
  
  • If you’re worried you might forget about this later, aim to complete it sooner, maybe within a week.
  • If you know you’ll need to break this into smaller steps, think about each task individually and work backward from the September 30 deadline. For example, your first step might be to research local bank account options by Monday, then schedule time later that week to open an account or call to enroll in Direct Express®.