SocSec will modify its payment system starting Sept 2025

Lethe200

Senior Member
Pls remember that if you DO NOT OPEN a "My Social Security" account on-line by April 14th and confirm your chosen method of communication from SSA, you will not be able to make any changes or updates to your account on-line, but must instead either call or visit a local office.

There is always a chance that DOGE/SSA will further extend the 4/14/2025 deadline, but nothing has been announced or even hinted at.
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Social Security will modify its payment system starting in September
MSN News 05April2025

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is embarking on a significant transformation by eliminating paper checks and transitioning to electronic payments. This change, effective from September 30, 2025, is part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration to modernize government financial systems. The shift to digital transactions is expected to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve security for millions of beneficiaries.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order in March 2025, mandating the transition to electronic payments. The White House emphasized the need for a more efficient and secure payment system, eliminating the reliance on paper and embracing digital solutions.

Despite the benefits, the transition poses challenges for approximately 456,000 individuals who still receive paper checks. Although this group represents only 0.7% of the 68.2 million beneficiaries, the shift could be daunting, particularly for older adults unfamiliar with digital technology.

Beneficiaries can update their information through the official Social Security website, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a local office. The SSA is committed to providing support and resources to assist individuals in adapting to the new system, ensuring that no one is left behind in this digital transformation.

The government has justified this move by highlighting the inefficiencies and risks associated with paper checks. These include unnecessary expenses, payment delays, and vulnerabilities to fraud and theft. By adopting electronic payments, beneficiaries will receive their funds more quickly and securely, without relying on postal services or risking the loss of physical documents.

Electronic payments will be facilitated through Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT), encompassing direct deposits into bank accounts, payments via debit or credit cards, and digital wallets. This modernization aligns with current financial trends, offering a streamlined and efficient process for all parties involved.

For beneficiaries without bank accounts, the government will provide alternatives such as prepaid payment cards. These cards will enable individuals to access their funds without the need for a traditional banking relationship, ensuring inclusivity in the new payment system.

The SSA has made it clear that this change is permanent. Beneficiaries who do not update their information by the deadline may experience payment delays. The administration urges all recipients to make the necessary adjustments promptly to avoid any disruptions in their benefits.

This transition marks a significant step towards a more modern and efficient government payment system. By embracing digital solutions, the SSA aims to enhance the overall experience for beneficiaries, providing faster, safer, and more reliable access to their funds.
 

we have such an issue here with checks being stolen and altered you got to be crazy to either still mail a check or get a check mailed to you .

we know 3 different couples who had irs refund checks stolen and are going thru hell with paper work and delays .

one had the replacement check stolen too
 
Since retirement in 2009 I been on the digital highway concerning my SS payments never a problem, in fact I get mine a day early & have since then. My pension is my only repository. Located across country (2000 miles) hasn't been hindered once. My SO gets her's electronically more local with limited problems.
 

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Just FYI, our local paper published this after an article that interviewed people who have had difficulty contacting the SSA via phone:

Tips from readers for Social Security issues​

Some readers shared tips they’ve identified to get through the morass.
- from SF Chronicle, 02April2025

  • Unfreeze your Experian account. A reader named Doug said that although login.gov doesn’t say it, it uses the credit reporting agency Experian to verify identity. If you’ve frozen your credit — which you should — you may need to temporarily unfreeze it while you set up or validate your Social Security account online.
  • Switch Internet browsers. A reader named Raymond sent a link to a Reddit thread where people talked about how they got out of endless redirect loops on login.gov. A popular solution: Try using Microsoft Edge or an incognito window on Google Chrome to access the site.
 
we get ours 3 days early since capital one , our bank is part of the early pay day program
I had 2 cards, a savings account & now a paid off auto loan with CapOne. Closing all 3, I had to make a call, It was a minor inconvenience, Hassle getting help, staffing problems probably, I think I'll let the dust settle. Thanks to all. Different pension provider.
 
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I had 2 cards, a savings account & now a paid off auto loan with CapOne. Closing all 3, I had to make a call, It was a minor inconvenience, Hassle getting help, staffing problems probably, I think I'll let the dust settle. Thanks anyway. Different pension provider.
we keep the bare minimum at capital one .

its to much work to change all our direct deposits so we keep it , let it hit and ach it out
 
@Lethe200
Do I understand correctly....
Even if we already receive the electronic payments, we need to confirm our identity on their website now?
 
I'm not claiming SS benefits yet, but my pension (and pay before that) has been deposited to my regional bank checking account for a very long time. I've had my tax refunds sent there as well. No issues.

I have savings and CDs at three other institutions. I don't expect a problem.

I write few checks these days, but I haven't had a problem.
 
I didn’t realize that anyone still received paper checks from SS.

About the only checks that I still write are to the IRS and my CPA.

I don’t feel comfortable with the IRS having my banking information.

At some point I will probably have to change my views on that and go electronic.
 
It is my understanding that if you already have direct deposit you do not need to do anything.

AI Overview
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If you already have Supplemental Security Income (SSI) direct deposit, you do not need to open a new online account with the Social Security Administration (SSA) to continue receiving benefits, unless you need to change your direct deposit information or other details.

Thank you for that reply. 🙂

I am referring to Soc. Sec., not the same as SSI, so I don't know if that makes a difference or not.
And also, if we made an account with the SSA website, after September 2021, than we might not need a new one, now.

I'm not 100% certain.
 
Thank you @Lethe200 I have opened an SSA online account. I thought I already had one, which is why I didn't heed your advice sooner. I did not have one.

Love the way we look out for each other here.
 
Thank you for that reply. 🙂

I am referring to Soc. Sec., not the same as SSI, so I don't know if that makes a difference or not.
And also, if we made an account with the SSA website, after September 2021, than we might not need a new one, now.

I'm not 100% certain.
Sorry, obviously I am not certain either. DON'T FOLLOW MY ADVICE!
 


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