Social Security to stop sending paper checks

(CNN, KYMA/KECY) - The U.S. government will soon stop sending out paper checks for federal payments. This includes to Social Security beneficiaries.

It's part of an effort to fully modernize federal benefits payments, save money and fight financial fraud.

More than half a million recipients, less than 1%, need to choose another way to receive their Social Security benefits: Either direct deposit or a pre-paid debit card known as Direct Express.

It starts on September 30.

If you still need to receive a paper check, you can request a waiver.

Some exceptions will be made, such as if you are 90 or older, have a mental impairment or live in too remote of a location.

You can apply for a waiver at the website GoDirect.gov.