Effective September 30, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury will no longer issue paper checks for most federal payments. 

After Sept. 30, paper checks will stop. You’ll need direct deposit to keep receiving your benefits.

All payments must be made electronically—either by direct deposit to your financial institution or to a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard.

Here’s how this change may impact you:

• Already have direct deposit → No action needed
• Still getting paper checks → Must switch to direct deposit before Sept. 30
• If no is action taken → Payments may be delayed or go to a Direct Express® card
  • Note: We cannot process cash advances on Direct Express® (not a Visa card)

We’re here to help. If you need your routing and account numbers or have questions about setting up direct deposit, please contact us at 716.434.2290. You can also visit GoDirect.gov or call the appropriate federal agency for assistance.