SLEDGE: Can delivery of my check be ensured?

Ned Sledge is a Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Richmond. Questions about Social Security issues may be directed to him by e-mailing or calling (804)771-8130.
Published: September 10, 2008

Q: I’m worried that I might not get my Social Security check if a natural disaster occurs. What can I do to be sure I get my money?
A: It’s that time of year again, when people find themselves facing hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, or floods, or dealing with their aftermath. During an emergency, you don’t want your Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) check to be dependent on home delivery. The answer: direct deposit. With direct deposit you’ll know your money is safe in your bank account no matter what happens to interrupt mail service.
With direct deposit, your money goes directly into your bank account. Because your funds are transferred electronically, there’s no risk of a lost or stolen check. Payment is faster and your money is available immediately. And there’s no need to leave your house when the weather is bad, or to stand in line at the bank. Whether you’re at home or away on the day of payment, you know your money is safe in your bank account instead of sitting unsecured in your mailbox.
Don’t have a bank account? Then Direct Express is for you. Direct Express is designed for people without bank accounts and works just like a debit card. Payments are loaded onto the card each month and are immediately available. You can then use your Direct Express card to get cash or to purchase items.
When faced with an emergency, there’s no question about where you’ll find your payment when it’s directly deposited into your bank. So whatever the weather, put direct deposit or Direct Express on your list of things to do. Visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Or, go directly to http://www.godirect.gov or http://www.fms.treas.gov/directexpresscard.