Social Security is changing how millions of beneficiaries are paid: What to expect
Michelle Rivera
Michelle Rivera
Reporter · Cleveland, OH
Michelle, an Ohio State University graduate, has spent over six years focusing on community issues in Cleveland, including social justice and local initiatives. She has previously written for NPR's local affiliates, where she honed her storytelling skills to highlight diverse community voices.
More from Michelle →Reporter · Thursday, November 5, 2026 at 12:00 PM · 1 min read
For 95% of Social Security’s 75-million beneficiaries, monthly payments arrive in the form of direct deposits to their bank accounts. For almost 4 million people, however, benefits are made via a prepaid Mastercard that provides an alternative for those who do not have a traditional bank account.