Paper Government Checks Are Going Away—Here’s How to Be Ready

Paper checks are officially on the way out.

Starting September 30, 2025, the federal government will no longer send paper checks for benefits such as Social Security payments, tax refunds, or other government payments.

Instead, everything will move to direct deposit or a prepaid card.

For some, this change feels overdue—direct deposit is faster, safer, and more reliable. But if you’re still using paper checks, don’t worry. We’re here to help you keep your wild dreams on track!

Here’s how to make the transition simple:

Step 1: Open a CFCU account

If you already have CloseEnuff™ checking or a High Yield Savings account with us, you’re good to go to the next step!

If you don’t already have a checking or savings account with us, now’s the perfect time. New accounts are quick to open, taking only five minutes and five dollars to get started. And you’ll have peace of mind knowing your money goes straight into a trusted, accessible, and local account.

• Don’t already have a membership or account?
  Tap here to join or open

Easy Direct Deposit is only the beginning. Explore all the ways we’re helping your social security and IRS checks go further with CloseEnuff™ checking and High Yield Savings.

Step 2: Gather your CFCU account info

You’ll need two things:

• Routing number
  Our routing number is: 272483743. When you need it in the future, it’s always easy to find in your CFCU app or at the bottom of our website.
• Your account number
  In digital banking, tap the account you want to use, then tap the eye icon under MICR Number to see the account number you’ll use for all direct deposits.
  

This is what Social Security or the IRS will use to send your deposits directly.

Step 3: Update your federal information

Visit ssa.gov/deposit for Social Security or GoDirect.gov for tax refunds and enter your CFCU account details from step 2. If you’d like, stop by a branch or give us a call—we’ll be happy to walk you through it.

Step 4: Turn on digital banking alerts

With our digital banking, you can set up instant alerts to let you know when your deposit hits. No more waiting by the mailbox or wondering when the check will clear.

• Open digital banking, tap the menu, and choose Alerts.

Step 5: Ask for help anytime

We know change can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do this alone. Our team is here to make sure you’re set up and confident before paper checks disappear for good. Tap to see all the ways to contact us!

Why it matters

Switching to direct deposit isn’t just about compliance. It’s about speed, security, and convenience. Your money gets to you faster, without the risk of losing a check in the mail. And with our digital tools, you’re in control every step of the way.

Why trust us with your federal direct deposit

• Boost your social security check by up to $1,000
  Get paid just for getting direct deposit! Earn up to $1,000 for opening a new CloseEnuff™ checking with direct deposit.

• Save more, faster with 10% APY* High Yield Savings
  Build savings quickly with 10% APY* on your first $1,000, plus a boosted rate beyond that.

• For-impact means for you
  We're a for-impact community credit union dedicated to the success of our local communities and neighbors... not global balance sheets. That means we do what's right for members and Michiganders every chance we get.

The bottom line: Paper checks may be going away, but your money isn’t. We’ll make sure it always lands safely where it belongs—right in your account.

Ready for the digital transition?

We’re here for you. Log in to get started! Or, if you prefer a helping hand, stop by your local branch or call our Michigan-based Care Center today at (877) 937-2328.

Helpful tools and links

Member Checklist:
Be ready for the end of federal paper checks

• Open a checking or savings account with us—if you don’t have one yet.
• Gather your CFCU routing number, it’s 272483743, and your account number.
• Update your account info with Social Security, IRS, or other agencies.
• Log in to your CFCU app and confirm everything is correct.
• Turn on alerts so you know the moment your money lands.
• Need help? Call us or stop by a branch—we’ll walk you through it!

Useful links

• Set Up Direct Deposit with the U.S. Treasury → GoDirect.gov
• Social Security Administration: Get Your Payments Electronically → ssa.gov/deposit
• IRS: Direct Deposit Information for Tax Refunds → irs.gov/refunds
• CFCU Digital Banking and App → cfcu.org/digitalbanking
• CloseEnuff^™ Checking Account → cfcu.org/CloseEnuff
• High Yield Savings → cfcu.org/highyield

*Accounts must be opened by November 30, 2025. Direct deposits must be active within 6 weeks of account opening. Direct deposit must continue for 90 days. Monthly direct deposit amounts must meet a tier’s minimum amount each month to qualify for the bonus. One bonus per member. Promotion based on SSN number. Members who also qualify for referral bonus will receive both promotional bonuses. An account is considered new if another was not opened within 6 months. Federally insured by NCUA. Member eligibility required. Payout will be mid-April 2026.