In March 2025, Social Security payments went out on time and there were no problems or delays. This means that the nearly 70 million people who get retirement, SSI, SSDI, or survivor payments from all of the programs run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) will continue to get their money.
The way that many people get paid is through automatic bank deposits that happen almost in real time. This is the type of payment that will be used to send your benefits.
The money will be sent to your account on the date shown on the SSA calendar. If, on the other hand, you get paid with paper checks, you may need to make a change very soon… or you might have trouble getting the money.
Goodbye to paper (mostly) for Social Security benefits
President Trump signed an order on March 25, 2025, that says, “Paper checks, see you never.”< The government will stop sending checks for all types of federal payments on September 30, that same year.
Yes, this does include things like Social Security checks, tax refunds, payments to suppliers, and more. Everything should be done electronically, like with direct deposit, prepaid cards, or other digital methods.
The White House says that checks are more likely to be stolen, cost more, and take longer to clear. In fact, it cost more than $657 million in 2024 to keep the check system running. About 456,000 Social Security recipients, or 0.7 percent of all recipients, are still getting their payments in the mail. Do not worry if you are one of them.
There are clear exceptions to the order. For example, if you can not use a bank, you are in an emergency, or electronic payment would cause you a lot of trouble, the Secretary of the Treasury can let you keep using checks. of course you will have to show that you meet the needs. For people who live in small towns without internet or are older and find it hard to use new technology, this exception is for you.
Seniors could face problems collecting their Social Security payments
The White House says this is good for everyone because it means less money spent, less time wasted, and a lower chance of your check being stolen. They say that paper checks are sixteen times more troublesome than electronic transfers.
It makes sense, too: Checks can get lost in the mail, get wet in the rain, or get into the wrong hands. A direct deposit comes right away. The government will also save a lot of money on shipping, paper, and ink. But… (there is always a but) not everything is fine.
Some people may find it hard to adjust, especially older adults or people who live in rural areas. Exceptions will be made in this case, but the process will not be automatic; someone will have to ask for them.
Do you receive Social Security in a paper check? You must do this immediately
The first thing you should do is not throw away any letters or emails from Social Security or the Treasury. If you are still getting checks, someone will be in touch soon to help you make the change.
Then, be ready to show why you think you need an exception. You will need proof of your situation, like proof that you live in a place without banks or a stable internet connection.
Then pick the digital method that works best for you if you are going that route. Most people get their money through direct deposit, but the government also gives out prepaid cards. Before choosing the one that fits your needs and lifestyle the best, do some research.
April Social Security payments: payment dates for the entire month
April 3, 2025 Payment: This day is reserved for those who began receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997. If that is your case, your payment will arrive on Thursday, April 3, as long as there are no administrative delays.
Second Wednesday: April 9, 2025: This includes beneficiaries who were born between the 1st and 10th of any month and who began receiving payments after April 1997. In April 2025, the second Wednesday falls on the 9th, so mark that date on your calendar if you meet these criteria.
Third Wednesday: April 16, 2025 (but with adjustment): This day corresponds to those born between the 11th and 20th of the month. However, there is an important detail: April 16, 2025 is Emancipation Day in Washington D.C., a local holiday that closes federal offices. Therefore, the payment scheduled for that Wednesday will be brought forward to Tuesday, April 15.
Fourth Wednesday: April 23, 2025: Finally, beneficiaries with birthdays between the 21st and 31st of the month will receive their payment on the fourth Wednesday, which in April 2025 is the 23.
