Starting September 30, 2025, the US government will stop sending paper checks for Social Security money benefits and IRS tax refunds. That means if you’re one of the nearly half-million Americans still relying on snail mail for your money, you need to act now.
The policy, ordered under a Trump administration executive directive, is part of a massive overhaul to modernize federal payments and crack down on fraud.
Officials say all government-issued payments will now be sent through direct deposit, prepaid debit cards, or approved digital wallets.
If you’re not on board by the deadline? You could be waiting weeks, or longer, to see your benefits.
WHO’S AFFECTED
According to the Social Security Administration, roughly 486,000 people still receive paper checks every month.
Additionally, around 3.5% of all IRS refunds are still being mailed, a group that could include millions more. And with the tax deadline approaching on April 15, it’s even more reason to update your payment info ASAP.
WHY IT’S HAPPENING
The Treasury Department says ditching paper will save social security money and protect against scams. Paper checks are more likely to get lost, stolen, or tampered with, while electronic payments are faster and easier to trace.
A White House spokesperson said:
“This is about delivering benefits safely and efficiently. Fraudsters love paper checks. It’s time to tighten that loophole.”
WHAT IF YOU DON’T HAVE A BANK ACCOUNT?
No need to panic, there are exceptions. The SSA and IRS say they’ll work with anyone who’s unbanked or tech-challenged to find a solution. One option is the Direct Express® debit card, designed specifically for federal benefit payments.
SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENT SCHEDULE – DON’T MISS OUT
Here’s when your April Social Security check is hitting, depending on your birthday:
- Born 1st–10th: April 9
- Born 11th–20th: April 16
- Born 21st–31st: April 23
The average monthly check is now around $1,976, but with a low 2.5% COLA increase, many retirees say it’s still not enough.
TAX REFUND? YOU’VE GOT ANOTHER DEADLINE COMING
If you haven’t filed your 2021 federal tax return, you could lose your refund entirely. Over 1.1 million Americans are eligible to claim unclaimed refunds worth $1 billion, but they must file by April 15, 2025.
After that, the money goes straight to the Treasury.
WHAT TO DO NOW
- Sign up for direct deposit through the SSA or IRS
- Update your banking info when you file taxes
- Ask about the Direct Express® card if you’re unbanked
- Share this with anyone you know still getting paper checks
September 30 is your deadline. Miss it, and your next payment could be delayed, or never come at all.
