In a world where nearly everything has gone digital, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is following the trend by pushing for fully electronic payments. But for a few groups of Americans, paper checks aren’t going away just yet. While most Social Security benefits are now sent via direct deposit or prepaid debit cards, some recipients will continue to receive physical checks—even after December 15 and throughout 2025.
Here’s what you need to know about the SSA’s payment changes, who still qualifies for a paper check, and other key updates that could impact your benefits.
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Payments
Every month, the SSA coordinates payments to more than 70 million beneficiaries. With so many people relying on timely payments, the administration follows a consistent payment schedule. For Retirement and Disability Insurance recipients, the date you receive your check depends on your birthday.
Here’s how the SSA generally schedules monthly payments:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | 2nd Wednesday of the month |
| 11th – 20th | 3rd Wednesday of the month |
| 21st – 31st | 4th Wednesday of the month |
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments are a little different:
- SSI is always paid on the 1st of the month
- If you receive both SSI and Social Security retirement benefits, your retirement payment is issued on the 3rd of the month
- If you began receiving benefits before May 1997, you’re also paid on the 3rd of the month
So, depending on your situation, December 15 may fall close to or match your payment date this month—especially for those with later birthdates.
Transition
Earlier this year, the SSA and the U.S. Treasury announced a major shift. A new executive order was signed to end paper checks for Social Security benefits by December 2025. This is part of a broader digital transformation to improve efficiency, cut costs, and reduce fraud.
The idea is simple: electronic payments are faster, safer, and easier to track. Most recipients have already made the switch, using direct deposit or the Direct Express debit card provided by the government.
But not everyone is on board—and not everyone can be. That’s why the SSA will continue issuing paper checks to certain groups who face real barriers to digital access.
Groups
So, who still gets a paper check after the push for full digitalization? The SSA has confirmed that it will continue issuing physical payments to the following three groups:
1. Seniors Aged 90 or Older
Many older beneficiaries are not comfortable with or able to navigate digital systems. Some have been receiving paper checks for decades and may lack access to online banking or smartphones. The SSA recognizes these challenges and will allow seniors aged 90 and above to continue with physical payments.
2. Individuals with Mental Disabilities
Beneficiaries with mental health impairments or cognitive challenges may struggle to manage digital platforms, passwords, or banking accounts. For these individuals, paper checks are a simpler and safer way to access their benefits with support from caregivers or representatives.
3. Residents in Remote Locations
In certain rural or remote areas, internet access or financial infrastructure is still limited. That means no nearby banks, ATMs, or reliable mobile data. In these cases, paper checks remain the most practical solution until better financial access is established.
If you fall into one of these categories and still receive a paper check, your payments will continue as usual beyond December 15, even though most others will shift to digital formats by the end of 2025.
COLA
In addition to changes to payment formats, SSA beneficiaries should also keep an eye on the upcoming cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This yearly increase helps ensure benefits don’t lose value due to inflation.
The new COLA figure is expected to be announced on October 15. Early estimates suggest a 2.5% to 2.7% increase, which is in line with last year’s adjustment.
This change will go into effect for January 2026 payments, giving millions of beneficiaries a slight boost in their monthly income to help keep up with rising costs.
Advance
One more update: because November 1 falls on a weekend, SSI recipients will receive their November payment early—on October 31. This kind of date shift is common when payment days land on weekends or holidays. It’s always a good idea to check the SSA’s payment calendar or your bank account in advance to stay on top of when your money is coming.
Reminder
Paper checks may be phasing out, but they’re not gone yet. If you’re over 90, have mental disabilities, or live in a remote area, you’re still eligible to receive Social Security payments by mail—even after December 15. And with the cost-of-living adjustment just around the corner, it’s a good time for all beneficiaries to stay informed and prepared.
Whether you’re going digital or sticking with the check in the mail, the SSA is continuing to evolve while still making room for those who need traditional support.
FAQs
Who still gets paper SSA checks?
Seniors 90+, mentally impaired individuals, and people in remote areas.
When will checks be sent in December?
Payments begin mid-month, with key dates like December 15.
When will paper checks fully end?
Most paper checks will end by December 2025.
What is the 2026 COLA increase?
Expected to be around 2.5% to 2.7% starting January 2026.
Why is SSA going digital?
To improve speed, reduce costs, and prevent fraud in payments.
