How to Prepare for the Social Security Administration’s Paperless Transition Blog
Starting September 30, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will stop mailing paper checks and transition entirely to electronic payments. This change follows an executive order signed in March aimed at reducing delays, minimizing fraud, and improving overall efficiency.
We understand that this change may be overwhelming, but we are here to help you navigate the transition smoothly and ensure your payments continue without interruption.
What You Need to Know Before September 30th
If you currently receive Social Security payments by paper check, you’ll need to choose an electronic payment method before the deadline. This shift is part of a broader modernization effort across federal agencies, which also affects IRS tax refunds and other government payments. You have two options:
1. Direct Deposit
This is the fastest and most secure way to receive your benefits. Your payment will be deposited directly into your checking or savings account. To set it up, you can:
- Create or log into your account on the Social Security website
- Call the SSA toll-free at 1-800-333-1795
- Visit your local SSA office or your bank, credit union, or savings and loan institution
Note: This is only an option if you already receive Social Security or SSI benefits and you have a bank account.
2. Direct Express® Card
If you don’t have a bank account or prefer not to use direct deposit, the Direct Express® card is a convenient alternative. Your benefits will be loaded onto a prepaid debit card each month. There are no fees to enroll, and no minimum balance required. Learn more about this option by visiting the SSA FAQ page.
We’re Here to Support You
To avoid any disruption in your payments, we recommend taking action as soon as possible. While some lawmakers have proposed exceptions, no changes have been finalized, so it’s best to prepare now.
If you have questions or need help choosing the right option, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to guide you every step of the way.
Recent Posts
Smith Anglin Financial is a group comprised of investment professionals registered with Hightower Advisors, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. Some investment professionals may also be registered with Hightower Securities, LLC (member FINRA and SIPC). Advisory services are offered through Hightower Advisors, LLC. Securities are offered through Hightower Securities, LLC.
This is not an offer to buy or sell securities, nor should anything contained herein be construed as a recommendation or advice of any kind. Consult with an appropriately credentialed professional before making any financial, investment, tax or legal decision. No investment process is free of risk, and there is no guarantee that any investment process or investment opportunities will be profitable or suitable for all investors. Past performance is neither indicative nor a guarantee of future results. You cannot invest directly in an index.
These materials were created for informational purposes only; the opinions and positions stated are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily the official opinion or position of Hightower Advisors, LLC or its affiliates (“Hightower”). Any examples used are for illustrative purposes only and based on generic assumptions. All data or other information referenced is from sources believed to be reliable but not independently verified. Information provided is as of the date referenced and is subject to change without notice. Hightower assumes no liability for any action made or taken in reliance on or relating in any way to this information. Hightower makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the information, for statements or errors or omissions, or results obtained from the use of this information. References to any person, organization, or the inclusion of external hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement (or guarantee of accuracy or safety) by Hightower of any such person, organization or linked website or the information, products or services contained therein.
Click here for definitions of and disclosures specific to commonly used terms.
Contact Us
14755 Preston Road, Suite 700
Dallas, TX 75254
972.267.1244 local
800.301.8486 toll free
Check the background of this practice on FINRA's BrokerCheck.
About Smith Anglin Financial
Founded in 1967, Smith Anglin is a wealth management practice based in Dallas, Texas. As trusted financial stewards, we provide an elevated standard of care and manage over $1.9 billion in client assets* for a select group of pilots, families, individuals, and business owners in 48 states and abroad. With deep roots in accounting, tax planning and aviation retirement readiness, our mission is to conscientiously help secure the financial well-being of our clients over the course of their lives, working diligently to help them achieve their goals, dreams and financial security.
*Data current as of 6/16/2025
Stay current and informed!
Form Client Relationship Summary ("Form CRS") is a brief summary of the brokerage and advisor services we offer.
HTA Client Relationship Summary
HTS Client Relationship Summary
Hightower Advisors, LLC is an SEC registered investment adviser. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Securities offered through Hightower Securities, LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. brokercheck.finra.org