Lethe200
Senior Member
- Location
- San Francisco Bay Area
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.
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.
=============
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.