federal benefit paper check

 

If you receive Social Security, VA or other federal benefit payments by paper check, it is time to switch to electronic payments. 

To protect you from rising mail theft and financial fraud, the federal government will stop sending paper checks for most federal benefit payment disbursements after September 30. Recipients should act now to switch to direct deposit or enroll for a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard® to ensure continuity and security of payments. 

This applies if you receive any of the following federal benefit payments:

  • Social Security
  • Supplemental Security Income
  • Veterans Affairs
  • Railroad Retirement Board
  • Office of Personnel Management
  • Department of Labor (Black Lung)

 

What you need to do

  • Check your current payment method. If you’re still receiving paper checks for federal benefits, start the switch now.
  • Enroll in Direct Deposit via your agency or at GoDirect.gov. Or, request a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®, a Treasury-offered prepaid card option.
  • After September 30, confirm that you are receiving payments via the method you selected. Contact your agency or GoDirect.gov with any issues.

 

Watch for scams

Fraudsters may impersonate federal agencies. Always verify communications and never share personal info unless you initiated the contact.

 

Need a Bank Account?

If you don’t currently have one, consider a Bank On-certified account, like Security Bank’s eChecking — a safe, low-cost option to receive electronic payments.

 

Make the Switch

Visit GoDirect.gov to enroll your federal benefit payments for direct deposit into your checking or savings account, or a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard® card. 

Security Bank is here to help you through this process. If you have questions or need assistance, contact us or stop by the bank.