How do I receive my Social Security payment?

The answer, for the vast majority of Social Security recipients, is “electronically.” The Social Security Administration (SSA) stopped mailing paper checks to most beneficiaries in 2013 to eliminate the expense of postal delivery. About 485,000 people, or 0.7 percent of all beneficiaries, were still receiving paper checks as of April 2025.

The standard way to receive your benefit is by direct deposit to your bank account. You can set up direct deposit or change your bank account information online if you have a My Social Security account (go to the “My Profile” tab) or in person at your local Social Security office (call 800-772-1213 to make an appointment). 

You can also set up direct deposit by telephone at 800-772-1213 as part of an application for benefits, according to the SSA. However, as of April 14, 2025, you cannot report a change in bank information to Social Security by phone; for that, you have to use your My Social Security account or visit an SSA office.

An alternative to getting benefits by direct bank deposit is to get a Direct Express debit card. Your benefits are deposited directly onto the card, which you can use like any other debit card to make purchases, pay bills and withdraw cash. You can sign up for Direct Express online or by calling 800-333-1795.

Keep in mind

• Social Security recipients still getting paid by check will need to switch to electronic payments by September 30, 2025. President Donald Trump issued an executive order in March 2025 phasing out paper-based payments by federal agencies. 
• For most beneficiaries, payments arrive on the second, third or fourth Wednesday of each month, depending on your birthday. Social Security provides payment calendars on its website.