Chattanooga Social Security Attorneys
Social Security Checks
The U.S. Department of Treasury has announced a new rule that changes the way people who receive benefits from the government are given payments. Instead of being given paper checks, benefit recipients will receive their money electronically. All recipients will need to adjust to the new system by March 1, 2013.
People who currently receive benefits under the following are affected by the new rule:
- Department of Labor (Black Lung)
- Office of Personnel Management
- Railroad Retirement Board
- Social Security
- Supplemental Security Income
- Veterans Affairs
People who apply for federal benefits on or after May 2, 2011 will automatically be given their benefit payments electronically under the new system. Benefit recipients who currently receive their money by paper check will be required to switch over to the new system by March 1, 2013.
Electronic Social Security Payment
There will be two options in which benefit recipients can be given their payment electronically under the new system. One option is to have the money deposited into a credit union or bank account by direct deposit. The other option is to have the money deposited into a Direct Express Debit MasterCard account. The card does not require someone to have a bank account in order to receive payment, nor do they have to have a credit check performed before they are granted the card. The card works similarly to an ATM card, but does not have fees related to sign-up, monthly account, or overdrafts. The funds in the account are also insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
Millions of people in America rely on Social Security benefits and other federal benefits in order to make ends meet. The new paperless check system implemented by the U.S. Department of Treasury will provide people with a benefit payment method that is convenient, easy, and reliable. People will not need to wait for the mail to arrive to receive their check - now, they will have their money electronically deposited into their specified account on their specified payment date. The electronic system also assures benefit recipients their check will not be lost or stolen.
The paperless check system also has other advantages. The system will help save millions of dollars of taxpayers’ money annually, as it is estimated that paper checks have cost $120 million every year. During the 10 years alone, the system is expected to save taxpayers $1 billion. The electronic system will also help protect the environment by eradicating the need for 12 million pounds of paper over the first five years of the new system.
Legal Guidance You Can Rely On
Unexpected changes are never easy, and people who are currently receiving Social Security benefits or other federal benefits may have questions about the new electronic system and be confused about how they will be given payment. The sooner they make the switch to the new paperless system and begin to be familiar with the process, the more it can be guaranteed they will be given the benefits that are due to them. If any questions or uncertainties come up regarding benefit payments, it is in a person’s best interest to consult with an attorney that has experience handling Social Security claims.
At Massey & Associations, P.C., our Chattanooga Social Security disability lawyers can answer any questions you have regarding the new electronic payment system or if you believe you are not being given the benefits you deserve. We can explain the new process to you as well as the legal options available to you in filing a claim regarding a payment dispute. To learn how our attorneys can help you receive the benefits you deserve, call 423-697-4529 today.
