Big changes are coming to how Americans receive federal payments. September 30, 2025, marks the end of paper checks for Social Security or Veterans benefits as well as future tax refunds.
This comes as the federal government transitions to digital payment methods in an effort to modernize systems, reduce fraud, and save taxpayer dollars. Paper checks are over 16 times more likely to be
lost, stolen, or delayed compared to electronic payments.
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Who’s affected?
While most Americans already receive federal payments electronically, hundreds of thousands of Social Security and Veterans benefits recipients still rely on paper checks. Additionally, millions of taxpayers opt for paper refund checks each year.
If you’re one of them, now is the time to make the switch to direct deposit—and General Electric Credit Union (GECU) is here to help.
How to set up direct deposit
As we approach the end of Social Security paper checks and checks for other federal payments, setting up direct deposit is becoming
more important than ever. To enroll, you'll need to provide some key details, including both your account number and your financial institution’s routing number.
If you're a GECU member, our routing number is: 2420-7682-1. Your savings or checking account number can be found:
If you receive paper Social Security checks or Veterans benefits, you can enroll in direct deposit by:
- Visiting: GoDirect.gov
- Calling the Electronic Payment Solution Center at: 800.967.6857
- Contacting the federal agency that issues your benefits
For tax refunds, you’ll have an opportunity to provide your account number and your financial institution’s routing number at the end of filing. The IRS will send your refund directly to this account.
Why switch to direct deposit with GECU?
GECU checking accounts come with
Early Pay, a free feature that gives you access to ACH deposits—including federal payments—up to two days early.
3 That means:
- Social Security and Veterans benefits could arrive sooner
- Tax refunds deposited into your GECU account may show up before the official IRS payment date
- You’ll enjoy faster, safer, and more reliable access to your money
If you don’t already have a GECU checking account,
open one to start enjoying the benefits. Choose from
three options packed with perks and
make the switch today!
