You may have already heard or read something about it, but this article is the confirmation of the news. Starting from September 30, 2025, physical checks will no longer be issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA), which are used to collect the monthly benefits of the beneficiaries. This modification has been driven by Fran J. Bisignano, the Commissioner of Social Security in the United States, who has explained the need to transform the Administration towards a more technological model, in addition to being a way to prevent cases of fraud and loss of checks. The statement warns that all payments made starting October 1, 2025, will be done in two different ways for the beneficiary to choose.
On one hand, direct deposit to a bank account, available through the GoDirect.gov website or by calling the official numbers, and on the other, using a Direct Express card, which works like a debit card. This change does not come alone, as the administration has announced other improvements such as the mySocialSecurity platform, where users will now be able to complete their procedures without interruptions, reduced waiting times in offices, and much more agile, personalized, and efficient telephone assistance.
This new measure represents a step forward for many people, but a real burden for others, specifically retirees. Also included are those people with disabilities or who do not have the technological means to access digital platforms, nor transportation to get to an office when needed. That is why the administration has announced that exceptions will be made in cases where it is demonstrated that a physical check is the only possible and viable way for the beneficiary.
Changes in the SSA Administration
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced changes for the upcoming quarter. Starting September 30, 2025, the administration will stop issuing physical checks for payments to beneficiaries. This new initiative comes from the Social Security Commissioner, Frank J. Bisignano, who aims to renew the SSA, transforming it into a more technological model. According to Bisignano, “The decision to suspend physical checks will allow us to better serve our beneficiaries, speed up response times, and improve the security of the system by eliminating risks such as lost checks or their misuse”.
New payment options
The Administration warns that those individuals who receive their payments via checks must make the switch before September 30th. Otherwise, they may experience delays and even a temporary interruption of their income. Starting in October, there will be two ways to receive payments:
- Direct deposit to a bank account. This requires registration through the official website, GoDirect.gov, or by calling 1-877-874-6347. Information such as Social Security number, bank account information (type, number, and routing number), and the claim number if available will be necessary.
- Direct Express Card. If you do not have a bank account or do not want to choose this option, you can request a Direct Express debit card. Each month it will be automatically loaded with the total of your benefits. To request it, you will need to contact the SSA and provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and information from your last received check.
More improvements in the SSA
The two new payment options are completely free and also come with more improvements:
- Update to the mySocialSecurity platform, with better availability and no interruptions.
- Reduction in wait times at the offices.
- Quick, fast, and effective telephone assistance.
This package of changes brings advantages for all beneficiaries. Wait, for everyone? One of the main problems with the new measures affects all those who do not have the means to go to the offices to collect their payments, or who do not have the necessary technology to access a digital payment. That is why the Administration, despite defending that its initiative is more than necessary to put an end to thefts, fraud, delays, and higher costs, will make exceptions in cases where individuals can demonstrate that a physical check is the only viable alternative.