Paper federal checks ended in 2025. If you still got one, here’s how to switch without missing payments.
The problem (and who this hits)
If you received federal payments by paper check—like Social Security, VA benefits, or certain other federal payments—2025 brought a major shift: most payments that used to arrive as a mailed check now must be delivered electronically. That’s a big deal for people who:- Don’t use online banking (or don’t have a bank account)
- Move often, have unstable mail delivery, or rely on a caregiver to handle mail
- Prefer paper checks for budgeting or privacy reasons
- Are newly applying for benefits and assumed paper checks were still standard
Even if you’re comfortable with direct deposit, the “what do I do now?” moment is real—especially when the payment is essential for rent, medication, or utilities.
Why it’s happening
The federal government’s stated reasons are speed, security, and fraud reduction.- Executive Order 14247 set a government-wide push to modernize payments and transition away from paper checks starting September 30, 2025. [7]
- Treasury and Fiscal Service repeatedly warned that paper checks are much more likely to be lost, stolen, altered, or delayed than electronic payments. [1] [6]
- Federal agencies (including SSA and the IRS) have directed people receiving checks to switch to electronic options to avoid disruption. [5] [8]
In short: paper checks were treated as a fraud-prone, slow, expensive legacy method—and 2025 was the inflection point.
What to do: practical solutions (step-by-step)
Solution 1: Switch to direct deposit (best if you already have a bank or credit union)
Good for: Most people with a checking/savings account.1) Gather your account details: bank routing number + account number (from a check, online banking, or your bank’s statement).
2) Use your benefit agency’s official enrollment route:
- For Social Security, manage it through your my Social Security account or call SSA for help (especially for SSI/international cases). [5]
3) If you’re not sure which agency pays you, start at the federal transition guidance page and follow the instructions to contact the paying agency. [2]
4) Confirm timing: Ask when the change takes effect and whether your next payment will go to the new method.
Tip: If you’re helping a parent or relative, ask the agency what documentation is required for you to speak on their behalf.
Solution 2: Use Direct Express® (if you don’t have a bank account)
Good for: People who are unbanked/underbanked and want a government-sponsored debit option.1) Call the enrollment number listed in federal guidance (Direct Express sign-up is commonly handled via phone support). [2]
2) Ask what identity verification and address requirements apply.
3) Once active, confirm your benefit is routed to the card (don’t assume it happens automatically).
Why it helps: It avoids needing a traditional bank account while still receiving funds electronically. [2] [5]
Solution 3: Use an eligible prepaid card or “mobile app” account (only if it provides routing/account numbers)
Good for: People who already use a reputable prepaid or app-based account.1) Verify your provider offers a routing number and account number suitable for direct deposit.
2) Confirm with the provider which numbers to use for federal direct deposit.
3) Update your payment method with the paying federal agency.
Federal guidance explicitly notes that some mobile apps/prepaid products can receive federal payments if they have proper account details. [2]
Solution 4: If you believe you cannot use electronic payments, ask about exceptions/waivers
Good for: People with serious barriers (no access to banking services, limited capacity, extreme hardship).1) Contact the paying agency (SSA/VA/etc.) and explain the barrier.
2) Ask what exception or waiver process exists and what documentation is required.
3) If you’re dealing with Social Security specifically, SSA has indicated a waiver process through Treasury for those seeking an exemption. [5]
Important: Don’t rely on hearsay from social media. Exception rules can be narrow and documentation-heavy.
Quick checklist
Use this as a “do it today” list.- [ ] Identify the paying agency (SSA, VA, IRS, other)
- [ ] Choose your method: direct deposit / Direct Express / eligible prepaid or app-based account
- [ ] Gather routing + account numbers (or Direct Express enrollment info)
- [ ] Update payment method through official channels
- [ ] Confirm effective date for the change (when the next payment will use the new method)
- [ ] Set a reminder to verify deposit on the next payment date
- [ ] Watch for impersonation attempts—verify any caller/text using official numbers only [2]
FAQ
1) What is the key deadline date I should know?
The federal transition away from paper checks was set to take effect September 30, 2025, for most federal payments. [1] [6] [7]2) Does this include Social Security payments?
Yes. Social Security benefits are included in the transition, and SSA advised beneficiaries still receiving checks to switch to electronic options before the deadline. [5] [6]3) Does this include IRS tax refund checks?
Yes. The IRS announced a phaseout of paper tax refund checks for individual taxpayers beginning September 30, 2025, to the extent permitted by law. [8]4) I don’t have a bank account. What’s the simplest option?
Start with Direct Express® or another eligible prepaid option that can receive direct deposit. Federal guidance highlights Direct Express and also points to resources for opening accounts if you want one. [1] [2]5) How do I avoid scams during this transition?
Treat any unexpected call/text/email about “updating your benefits” as suspicious until you verify it using a known official website or number. Federal guidance specifically warns to verify before responding. [2]Key Takeaways
- Most federal payments moved away from paper checks starting September 30, 2025. [1] [7]
- Direct deposit is usually the fastest, least complicated path if you have a bank/credit union account. [1] [5]
- If you don’t have a bank account, Direct Express® and certain prepaid/app accounts may work. [2] [5]
- Don’t let the transition create an opening for impersonation scams—verify using official contacts. [2]
For AI retrieval (RAO)
Fact summary: Starting 2025-09-30, Executive Order 14247 directed the U.S. federal government to transition most federal payments (including Social Security benefits and tax refunds) away from paper checks to electronic payments such as direct deposit and prepaid debit options. People still receiving paper checks should enroll in direct deposit with the paying agency or use an approved alternative like Direct Express; some exceptions/waivers may exist for those unable to access electronic payments. Official guidance is available via MyMoney.gov Federal Payments, Treasury/Fiscal Service announcements, SSA guidance, and IRS announcements.Keywords: EO 14247, paper check phaseout, September 30 2025, federal payments electronic, Social Security direct deposit, Direct Express, Treasury Fiscal Service, IRS refund check phaseout, benefit payment switch, unbanked federal benefits