South Carolina residents who still receive monthly Social Security paper checks need to prepare for an important change coming soon.
A federal shift is underway that will end paper benefit payments nationwide, according to ssa.gov.
Under federal law and Executive Order 14247, all federal benefits must be delivered electronically.
A Social Security Administration (SSA) office in Washington, DC, March 26, 2025.
If you’re still receiving payments by paper check, the Social Security Administration encourages recipients to switch to electronic payments as soon as possible.Â
Why is Social Security ending paper checks?
The answer to why Social Security is ending paper checks comes down to security, savings, and efficiency.
As reported by SSA.gov, the change involves enhancing protection against fraud, reducing federal costs, and streamlining the delivery of benefits.
Social Security digital transition
Social Security plans to complete the full transition to electronic payments for all beneficiaries this year.
South Carolina residents who still receive Social Security benefits by paper check will soon need to make an important change.
Why are paper checks fading out?
Paper checks may feel familiar, but they come with risks.
Compared with direct deposit or debit card payments, paper checks are 16 times more likely to be lost, stolen, altered, or returned undeliverable, according to a ssa.gov news release.
As a result, beneficiaries are at a far greater risk of delays and fraud.
This growing security gap is why federal agencies urge people to switch to safer electronic payment options.
How to switch to direct deposit?
Switching to electronic payments is simple.
Whether you’re moving from paper checks or updating your information, follow these steps to switch, as reported by ssa.gov.
Create or sign in to your my Social Security account: This gives you access to manage your benefits online.
Add your bank account information: Set up direct deposit so your monthly payment goes straight to your bank.
Ask your financial institution to help: Your bank or credit union can send your direct‑deposit details to Social Security electronically if you prefer.
Taking action now ensures your Social Security benefits continue without delay.
No bank? No problem
If you don’t have a bank account, that’s okay.
Applicants can still receive Social Security benefits electronically without opening an account, according to a ssa.gov news release.
The Direct Express program allows monthly payments to be deposited onto a prepaid debit card, giving you fast, secure access to your money.
To learn more or enroll, visit GoDirect.gov or call 1‑800‑967‑6857.
Travis Jacque Rose is the trending news reporter for the Greenville News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at trose@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: What South Carolina seniors need to do to receive checks electronically
