Social Security Benefits—Electronic Payments
If you or a loved one receives Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits, please be aware that the Social Security Administration (SSA) will soon stop issuing paper checks and all beneficiaries will receive their payments electronically.
If you did not sign up for electronic payments when you applied for benefits, the SSA strongly urges you sign up now. You must switch to electronic payments by March 1, 2013. If you do not sign up the U.S. Department of the Treasury may send your benefits via the Direct Express® card program to avoid an interruption in payment.
You can sign up for electronic payments by calling SSA directly at 1-800-722-1213 or online at www.ssa.gov. You can also visit your local office in person. If you need help finding the office closest to you feel free to contact your ElderCare Specialist for assistance. If you currently have an account that you would like to use, go directly to your bank or credit union with proper identification as well as your Social Security card and they should be able to assist you in having the payment direct deposited into your existing account.
SSA states that your benefit amount will be applied to your account the day you typically receive your paper check. If you are used to receiving a check on the 3rd of each month, the money will be direct deposited into your account at the opening of business day on the 3rd. There should be no interruption in receiving your benefits. If you do not sign up for direct deposit you will receive your Express card on the same day you are used to receiving your paper check.
This information was obtained from the Social Security Administration. For a list of frequently asked questions regarding the switch from paperless to electronic payment you can view their FAQ section at: http://www.ssa.gov.
For additional information about Social Security benefits, or any other senior related issue, contact Heather Spindler, MSW, at 314-802-5106 toll free at 1-888-388-1930 or via email at [email protected] to get started today.