Social Security letters are going online; fewer paper checks being mailed

For many years, people got letters and checks from Social Security in the mail. Soon, that will change. The government says that by the end of September 2025, almost everything will be online.

What Does That Mean?

• Most people will not get paper checks anymore.
• Instead, money will go straight to your bank or a special card.
• Many letters will only show up online in your Social Security account.

Why the Change?

The government says paper checks can get lost or stolen. They also cost more money to print and mail. Online payments are faster and safer.

Who Still Gets Paper?

Right now, about half a million people still get paper checks. Some very old people, or people who live in hard-to-reach places, may still get paper if they ask for a waiver. But most people will need to go online.

Why It Feels Hard

Many people say signing in is confusing. There are different sign-in choices, like Login.gov or ID.me. Sometimes you forget which one you used. That can make it stressful.

A Note About Help

Your Social Security account is private. For your safety, no one else should ever log in for you.

People who want to help you should only give written directions. They should not go on your computer in person or from far away.

This protects you from fraud or mistakes, and it protects them from being blamed if something goes wrong.

What You Can Do

• Keep your sign-in safe. A password tool can help.
• Ask about waivers if you cannot use online tools.
• Check your account often, so you do not miss anything.

Change can be hard, but knowing the rules can make it easier. By the end of September 2025, Social Security will be mostly online — and it will be up to you to keep your account safe.