Paper Checks Are Ending: What You Need to Know About Federal Benefit Payments

To help protect you against mail theft, fraud and delays, the federal government will stop sending paper checks after September 30, 2025, except in very limited circumstances.

This means that most federal payments, including Social Security, VA benefits and tax refunds, will need to be received electronically.

What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re currently receiving federal payments by paper check, you’ll need to switch to one of the following options:

• Direct deposit to a bank or credit union account (like your APCU/Center Parc account)
• Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®, a prepaid debit card offered by the U.S. Treasury
  
  

 Not enrolled yet? Here’s how to switch today:

• Enroll online for direct deposit into your checking or savings account
• Call 1-877-874-6347 to enroll for direct deposit or the Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®
• Download and complete a form to mail in your enrollment
  
  

Benefits of Electronic Payments:

• Faster access to your money — no waiting for the mail
• Secure delivery — no risk of lost or stolen checks
• Peace of mind — payments arrive directly and reliably into your account

Learn more at  GoDirect.gov/gpw