No More Paper Checks For Federal Benefits

DETROIT (WWJ) - If you're retiring soon or are applying for federal benefits, don't expect to get a paper check. The federal government will begin making all benefits payments either directly to your bank or credit union account or to a special debit card.

Federal Benefits recipients who have not designated which of those payment methods they prefer by March 1, 2013, will be issued a Direct Express Debit Master Card.

This newer payment method applies to anyone receiving federal benefits Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, Railroad Retirement Board, Office of Personnel Management or Department of Labor (for Black Lung).

For more information and answers to questions, visit this link.