In March of 2025 President Trump signed Executive Order 14247 which mandated that the U.S. Department of the Treasury stop issuing most paper checks for federal payments. As of September 30, 2025, the treasury will no longer issue checks for tax refunds, Social Security, and Veterans Affairs benefits. Its aim is to modernize payments, reduce fraud and theft, and eliminate delays.

Most recipients who already receive payments electronically will not need to do anything. Those currently receiving paper checks must switch to electronic payment methods, such as direct deposit into a bank account or a Direct Express prepaid debit card, which is run by the treasury department and currently administered by 5/3 Bank.

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