The government is planning to phase out paper checks for most consumers receiving Social Security benefits and other federal payments this month.
The transition is prompted by an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in March, which mandates the move to electronic payments for federal benefits by Sept. 30.
The move is aimed at preventing fraud and reducing spending, according to the Trump administration.
The transition away from paper checks may be “problematic” for some people, particularly if they are homeless, disabled, unbanked or just don’t feel comfortable receiving an electronic payment, said Tracey Gronniger, managing director of economic security at Justice in Aging, a national organization focused on fighting senior poverty.
Moreover, beneficiaries may face complications with their payments if they have to go through a waiver process to receive paper checks, Gronniger said.
