Federal law mandates that all federal benefit payments – including Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – be made electronically.

There are two ways you can receive your payments:

1. Into an existing bank account via Direct Deposit
2. Onto a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard®

Direct deposit is the best electronic payment option because it is:

• Safe – Paper checks are more likely to be lost or stolen compared to electronic payments, increasing the risk of fraud. Electronic payments provide a safer, more secure way to receive funds.
• Quick – It's easy to receive your payment by direct deposit. You can sign up online through your personal my Social Security account, through Treasury's Go Direct® website, or by calling 1-877-874-6347. You can also enroll by phone by calling Treasury's Electronic Payment Solution Center at 1-800-333-1795 or call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). Lastly, if you prefer enrolling in person, visit your financial institution. Then, just relax. Your payment will go automatically into your account every month. And you'll have more time to do the things you enjoy!
• Convenient – With direct deposit, you no longer need to stand in line to cash your check. Your money goes directly into your account. You don't need to leave your house in bad weather or worry if you're on vacation or away from home. You don't need to pay any fees to cash your checks. Your funds will be available in your account and ready for use as soon as business opens on the day you normally receive your payment.

If you are applying for Social Security benefits or SSI, you must elect to receive your payment electronically when you enroll. If you currently receive Social Security benefits or SSI by check, you must switch to an electronic payment option listed above.

To learn more about how to easily switch from a paper check to an electronic payment option, visit Treasury's Go Direct® website or call the Treasury's Electronic Payment Solution Center at 1-800-333-1795. To learn more about opening a bank account, please visit FDIC: GetBanked - Learn How to Open an Account at an FDIC-Insured Bank.

In extremely rare circumstances, Treasury may grant exceptions to the electronic payment mandate. For more information or to request a waiver, call Treasury at 1-855-290-1545. You may also print and fill out a waiver form and return it to the address on the form.

If you have any questions, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).