Social Security payments can be distributed in different ways including in the form of a debit card or by a Social Security direct deposit into their bank account.

Go Banking Rates noted that if you are included in the claimants still getting their payments in paper checks, you should switch as soon as possible.

The Social Security Administration has instructions to get the Social Security direct deposit payment plan. Recipients can log in to their Social Security account online and start or change it to direct deposit.

Recipients can also contact their bank, credit union, savings, or loan association. They can also opt to call the Social Security toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 or visit their nearest Social Security field office.

If you are eyeing a debit card payment form, the Direct Express® is the debit card beneficiaries can use to access their benefits, according to Social Security Administration website.

Recipients will not need a bank account to acquire the said debit card. Through the card program, the federal benefit is directly deposited into their card account.

The debit card can be used to make purchases or cash in the benefits at thousands of locations.

Meanwhile, Social Security direct deposit will require recipients to have a bank account before they can sign up for this service.

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Social Security Payments

Social Security benefits can see a payout that is roughly 8%-9% higher next year due to the rising inflation rate.

In addition, U.S.A Today reported that retirees could see an additional $150 a month if there is a 9% cost of living adjustment to Social Security payments next year.

It was estimated that a cost-of-living adjustment could be an extra $1,800 a year.

Mary Johnson, who is a Social Security policy analyst for the nonprofit The Senior Citizens League, predicted that it will be one of the highest COLAs ever paid in the history of the benefits scheme. The nonprofit group estimated that the adjustment could be as high as around 10.1% if inflation continues to go up.

The analyst added that older adults feel the deepest effect of inflation as they are the ones who are not bringing home a paycheck, even a small one. It also includes seniors who do not have a pension or savings.

Johnson noted that every COLA is "meaningful" with Social Security being one form of retirement income that is adjusted for inflation.

Social Security Concerns

Social Security offices closed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, mostly providing the agency's services through phone and online starting in March 2020. Since then, customers had to submit paperwork by mail, as reported by CNBC News report.

The agency announced the opening of its field offices again in January, with customers having to wait an average of 40 minutes.

The long waiting time prompted lawmakers to send a letter to SSA acting commissioner, Kilolo Kijakazi, regarding the actions the agency will take to improve customer service.

An SSA spokesperson said that they urge the public to use the SSA website or call them if they cannot complete the business online. In addition, beneficiaries can schedule appointments in advance to avoid long queues.

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This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Mary Webber

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