The Social Security Administration (SSA) initially planned to stop issuing paper checks for benefit payments starting September 30, 2025, as part of a broader government initiative to modernize payment systems, reduce costs, and enhance security.
This decision was driven by an executive order signed by President Trump in March 2025, aiming to transition all federal payments to electronic methods like direct deposit or Direct Express prepaid debit cards.
Paper checks, which cost about 50 cents each to issue compared to 15 cents for electronic transfers, are also 16 times more likely to be lost or stolen, increasing fraud risks. Fewer than 1% of the SSA’s approximately 70 million beneficiaries—around 456,000 to 521,644 people—still receive paper checks.
Following push-back, the SSA reversed this decision in late July 2025, confirming it will continue issuing paper checks for beneficiaries who have no other means to receive payments, such as those without bank accounts or access to electronic payment systems.
The agency is still encouraging a shift to electronic payments, citing faster processing, enhanced security, and creditor protections under federal law (e.g., Section 207 of the Social Security Act and the Consumer Credit Protection Act), which safeguard two months of benefits in bank accounts or Direct Express cards but not cash from paper checks.
Beneficiaries currently receiving paper checks are being notified to switch to direct deposit or Direct Express cards.
Those who cannot transition due to specific circumstances—such as mental impairment, living in remote areas without digital infrastructure, or being 90 or older—can request a waiver from the Treasury Department’s Electronic Payment Solution Center at 1-855-290-1545 or by submitting a form. Without a waiver, payments may be disrupted after September 30, 2025.
To ensure uninterrupted benefits, affected recipients should act promptly to set up electronic payments through their bank, a my Social Security account online, or by contacting the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Waiver Process Details
The waiver process for continuing to receive Social Security Administration (SSA) paper checks after the planned transition to electronic payments (effective September 30, 2025) is designed for beneficiaries who cannot use direct deposit or Direct Express prepaid debit cards due to specific hardships.
Here are the details based on available information:
Eligibility for a Waiver
Waivers are granted for limited circumstances, such as:
Mental or physical impairments that prevent managing electronic payments.
Living in remote areas without access to banking or digital infrastructure.
Age 90 or older as of a specified date (often tied to policy implementation).
Other exceptional cases, evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
How to Request a Waiver
Contact the Treasury Department’s Electronic Payment Solution Center
Call 1-855-290-1545 to speak with a representative who can assess eligibility and guide you through the process.
Be prepared to explain why electronic payments (direct deposit or Direct Express) are not feasible.
Submit a Waiver Form
Obtain the waiver request form (likely the FS Form 1201W or a similar form) from the Treasury Department or SSA.
The form may be available online at www.fiscal.treasury.gov or through local SSA offices.
Complete the form with details about your situation, such as lack of banking access, medical conditions, or age-related issues.
Submit the form as instructed, either by mail or through an SSA office. Specific mailing addresses or submission methods depend on your location and are provided with the form or by the Solution Center.
Required Information
You may need to provide:
Personal identification (e.g., Social Security number, name, address).
Documentation or explanation of the hardship (e.g., proof of residence in a remote area, medical records for impairments, or age verification).
Contact information for follow-up.
Processing and Approval
The Treasury Department reviews waiver requests on a case-by-case basis.
Processing times vary, but acting promptly is critical to avoid payment disruptions after September 30, 2025.
If approved, you’ll continue receiving paper checks. If denied, you’ll be directed to set up electronic payments, and the SSA or Treasury may provide assistance.
Next Steps if You Don’t Qualify
If a waiver is not granted, you must enroll in direct deposit (via a bank account) or a Direct Express card.
Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit www.ssa.gov to set up electronic payments.
Local SSA offices or the Treasury’s Go Direct program can assist with Direct Express enrollment.
Important Notes
The SSA’s reversal in July 2025 ensures paper checks continue for those who cannot transition, but a waiver is still required to formalize the exemption.
Beneficiaries are urged to act well before the September 30, 2025, deadline to avoid delays.
For additional help, visit a local SSA office or check www.godirect.gov for resources.
If you need specific forms or further assistance, contact the Electronic Payment Solution Center or your local SSA office, as processes may vary slightly by region.
Here’s a simple, flavorful Homemade BBQ Sauce recipe that’s smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet—perfect for your Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Ribs. It’s inspired by popular recipes from sources like RecipeTin Eats and Allrecipes, designed for balance and versatility. (Makes 2 cups)
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups Ketchup (use a good-quality brand like Heinz for best flavor)
½ cup Brown Sugar (packed, light or dark)
¼ cup Apple Cider vinegar
2 tbsp Molasses (for depth; can substitute with honey)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp Smoked Paprika (for smokiness)
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
½ tsp Black Pepper
½ tsp Salt
½ tsp Chili Powder or Cayenne (optional, for heat)
1 tsp Liquid Smoke (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
2 tbsp Water (to adjust consistency, if needed)
Directions:
Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder (if using), and liquid smoke (if using).
Simmer:
Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce comes to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened and flavors meld.
Adjust:
Taste and adjust seasoning—add more sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or chili powder for heat. If too thick, stir in water 1 tbsp at a time.
Cool and Store:
Let cool to room temperature. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes:
For a sweeter sauce, increase brown sugar by 1-2 tbsp. For more tang, add an extra 1 tbsp vinegar. For spicier, double the chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce.
Great for brushing on ribs before broiling, as a dipping sauce, or for chicken, pork, or even grilled veggies.
Sauce flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, so consider making it ahead for your ribs.
This Homemade BBQ Sauce complements the slow cooker beef ribs perfectly, adding a rich, sticky glaze.
If you want a specific variation (e.g., honey-based or extra spicy) or tips for using it with other dishes, just let me know by sounding off in the comments.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has implemented stricter policies in 2025 to require proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status for Section 8 housing benefits, aligning with federal law under Section 214 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980.
HUD Secretary Scott Turner announced on August 30, 2025, that Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) must provide a comprehensive accounting of all tenants receiving Section 8 vouchers or residing in HUD-funded housing within 30 days, including proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status (e.g., lawful permanent residency, refugee status, or COFA citizenship).
This follows a March 2025 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between HUD and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enforce these requirements and prevent illegal aliens from receiving federal housing assistance.
Key Details
Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must provide a signed Declaration of Section 214 Status, a Social Security number, and proof of citizenship (e.g., passport, birth certificate) or eligible immigration status (e.g., green card, Form I-94 with specific annotations). For non-citizens under 62, additional Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) documentation and a signed Verification Consent Form are required. Those over 62 need only a signed declaration and proof of age.
Mixed-Status Households: Currently, mixed-status households (with both eligible and ineligible members) can receive prorated Section 8 assistance based on the number of eligible members. For example, if two of four household members are eligible, the voucher covers 50% of the full benefit. However, HUD is reviewing policies to potentially end proration, which could lead to loss of assistance for such households unless ineligible members (illegal aliens) are removed.
Enforcement Actions: HUD is conducting a nationwide audit of PHAs, requiring tenant eligibility verification within 30 days. Non-compliant PHAs risk losing federal funding. A data-sharing agreement with DHS facilitates identifying ineligible tenants through the SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) program.
Impact and Criticism: The policy aims to prioritize U.S. citizens and lawful residents, but critics, including immigrant advocates, argue it may deter eligible mixed-status families from applying due to fear of immigration consequences and raise privacy concerns over data sharing. Approximately 25,000 mixed-status households, including 55,000 children (mostly U.S. citizens or legal residents), could face housing instability if proration ends.
Additional Context: HUD’s 2025 FHA mortgage rules also restrict eligibility to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or COFA citizens, excluding non-permanent residents like DACA recipients.
COFA Agreements
The Compact of Free Association (COFA) agreements are international treaties between the United States and three Pacific Island nations: the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau.
These agreements, established in 1986 (FSM and RMI) and 1994 (Palau), define a unique relationship allowing these nations sovereignty while maintaining close economic, military, and social ties with the U.S.
Key features of COFA agreements include:
Sovereignty and Defense: COFA nations are independent but grant the U.S. exclusive military access to their land, airspace, and waters. The U.S. provides defense and can establish military bases, while denying other nations’ military access.
Economic Assistance: The U.S. provides financial aid, administered through the Department of the Interior, to support infrastructure, health, education, and economic development. For example, the FSM and RMI received fundingomics, and Palau through 2023, with funding transitioning to trust funds (e.g., $1.9 billion for FSM from 2003-2023). Funding for Palau is set to continue until 2044.
Migration Rights: COFA citizens can live, work, and study in the U.S. without visas, treated as non-immigrants but with lawful status. This makes them eligible for certain U.S. federal benefits, like HUD housing programs, as equivalent to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Eligibility for U.S. Benefits: COFA migrants are eligible for programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and HUD assistance (e.g., public housing, Section 8) due to their legal status, though access may vary by state or program rules. Recent HUD policies (e.g., May 2025 FHA mortgage rules) explicitly include COFA citizens as eligible.
Strategic Importance: The agreements ensure U.S. influence in the Pacific, countering potential foreign influence (e.g., from China), while COFA nations gain economic and security benefits.
These agreements stem from the U.S. administering these islands as a UN Trust Territory post-World War II until their independence.
COFA migrants face challenges like poverty and health disparities in the U.S., but their unique status ensures access to certain federal programs.
The Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is one of the park’s most iconic hikes, renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and unique path along the Continental Divide, often referred to as the Garden Wall.
Stretching roughly 12 miles from Logan Pass to The Loop, the trail is famed for its panoramic views of rugged peaks, glacial valleys, and sweeping alpine meadows.
With much of the route skirting along the Continental Divide, hikers are treated to breathtaking scenery that feels both vast and intimate, as mountain goats, marmots, and wildflowers line the narrow, cliffside path.
What sets the Highline Trail apart is its unique combination of accessibility and adventure.
The trail begins at Logan Pass, a popular starting point along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, and quickly ascends into a dramatic traverse where the path clings to the mountainside, sometimes only a few feet wide, with sheer drop-offs below.
Chains are bolted into the rock for added security in the narrowest sections, but the views of the Garden Wall, towering cliffs, and distant glaciers make the challenge worthwhile.
One of the highlights along the way is the Grinnell Glacier Overlook Spur Trail, a steep detour that rewards hikers with an unforgettable view of Grinnell Glacier tucked beneath jagged peaks.
From this vantage point, the immensity of the landscape becomes even more striking, as turquoise waters and ancient ice create a surreal alpine scene.
Many hikers choose to finish the trek by descending to The Loop, where a shuttle can return them to Logan Pass, making the journey both manageable and rewarding.
The Highline Trail is best hiked during the summer months, when snow has melted from the high passes and the wildflowers are in full bloom.
Despite its popularity, the trail retains a sense of wild solitude, offering glimpses of untouched wilderness and the grandeur of the Northern Rockies.
It is a hike that captures the essence of Glacier National Park — dramatic landscapes, raw natural beauty, and the thrill of adventure.
Highline Trail Overview
Location: Starts at Logan Pass Visitor Center on Going-to-the-Sun Road and stretches to Granite Park Chalet, with options to continue to The Loop or other destinations.
Distance:
Logan Pass to Granite Park Chalet: 7.6 miles one-way (15.2 miles round trip).
Logan Pass to The Loop (point-to-point): 11.6–12.1 miles.
Shorter out-and-back to Haystack Butte: ~7 miles round trip.
Elevation:
Gain: ~800 feet for the Logan Pass to The Loop route (minimal for the first 7 miles).
Loss: ~3,000 feet from Granite Park Chalet to The Loop.
Grinnell Glacier Overlook
The actual hike itself can be moderate to challenging, depending on the route. The trail is relatively flat to Granite Park Chalet but long, with exposure and a steep descent to The Loop. The optional Grinnell Glacier Overlook adds a strenuous 0.9-mile climb (1,000 feet elevation gain).
The usual time it takes is 5–8 hours for the one-way Logan Pass to The Loop hike and 3–4 hours for the shorter Haystack Butte round trip.
The best time during the year to take the hike is from July to September, when Going-to-the-Sun Road is open and snow has melted. Check trail status for snowpack, as it can linger into July.
Logistics and Tips
Going-to-the-Sun Road requires a vehicle reservation (May–September, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM). Arrive early or use the park shuttle from St. Mary or Apgar Village. No parking is available at The Loop trailhead.
The free park shuttle connects The Loop to Logan Pass but can have long waits (up to 1 1/2 hours). Check schedules at nps.gov/glac.
No permit is needed for day hiking, but backcountry camping (e.g., Granite Park Chalet or beyond) requires a permit.
There are limited water sources so it’s recommended that 2–3 liters of water be brought per person. A potable water fountain is at Logan Pass, and a stream near Granite Park Chalet requires treatment.
Yes, there are going to be bears, so bring along some bear spray. Also bring along some sunscreen, a sun hat or hooded shirt (little shade), layers for variable weather, high-energy snacks, and sturdy hiking shoes.
Bears are common; make noise, hike in groups, and keep bear spray accessible.
The ledge section is exposed; so you might want to avoid it if you’re Acrophobic.
The trail is very popular, especially the first few miles. Start early (before 7:00 AM) for fewer people and better parking odds.
The Highline Trail is often called Glacier’s “crown jewel” for its nonstop vistas, relatively gentle grade (until the descent to The Loop), and chances to see wildlife and glaciers. Hikers describe it as a bucket-list trek, with the Grinnell Glacier Overlook being a highlight for its jaw-dropping views. Despite its popularity, the trail offers moments of solitude, especially beyond Haystack Butte.
This Icelandic Fish and Potato Casserole dish is a cozy, one-pan meal inspired by Iceland’s fishing culture and hearty, warming flavors.
It serves about 6 and combines flaky cod, creamy potatoes, and a cheesy, golden topping, perfect for a Reykjanes fisherman or rancher after a cold day.
4 medium russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups (360ml) whole milk
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
1 cup (100g) shredded mild cheddar or Gouda cheese
1/2 tsp dried dill or 1 tsp fresh dill (optional, for Icelandic flair)
1 tsp salt, or to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Cook Potatoes: Place potato slices in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and simmer for 8–10 minutes until just tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.
Make Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until thickened (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in 3/4 cup cheese, dill, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Assemble Casserole: Layer half the potato slices in the baking dish. Place cod pieces evenly over the potatoes. Pour half the cream sauce over the cod. Add the remaining potatoes, then pour the rest of the sauce over the top.
Add Topping: Mix breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole, then top with the remaining 1/4 cup cheese.
Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley or chives. Serve hot with a side of rye bread (a nod to Icelandic tradition) or a simple green salad. Pair with your creamy potato soup for a hearty meal or follow with chocolate-covered peanut butter balls for dessert.
Tips:
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions. Freeze for up to 2 months, though the texture may soften slightly.
Variations: Swap cod for salmon or haddock, or add shrimp for a seafood mix. For a vegetarian version, replace fish with mushrooms or roasted root vegetables. Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for dietary needs.
Icelandic Touch: Icelandic cuisine often features fish and dairy, reflecting Reykjanes’ coastal and pastoral heritage. Dill and rye bread echo traditional flavors, while the creamy sauce ties to your potato soup recipe.
Geothermal Inspiration: The creamy, warm dish evokes the comforting heat of Reykjanes’ geothermal springs, like the Blue Lagoon, and the rugged lifestyle of its fishing communities.
Reykjanes Context
Reykjanes’ fishing villages like Grindavík and Keflavík are central to Iceland’s seafood industry, making fish a staple in local diets.
Potatoes are a common ingredient in Icelandic cooking, often paired with creamy sauces or cheese, reflecting the region’s reliance on hearty, simple ingredients to combat the harsh climate.
This casserole could be a modern take on dishes served in homes near the volcanic landscapes of Sundhnúksgígar or the cliffs of Krýsuvíkurbjarg, where seabirds and waves dominate the scenery.
Social Security Administration to stop issuing paper checks
The Social Security Administration (SSA) initially planned to stop issuing paper checks for benefit payments starting September 30, 2025, as part of a broader government initiative to modernize payment systems, reduce costs, and enhance security.
This decision was driven by an executive order signed by President Trump in March 2025, aiming to transition all federal payments to electronic methods like direct deposit or Direct Express prepaid debit cards.
Paper checks, which cost about 50 cents each to issue compared to 15 cents for electronic transfers, are also 16 times more likely to be lost or stolen, increasing fraud risks. Fewer than 1% of the SSA’s approximately 70 million beneficiaries—around 456,000 to 521,644 people—still receive paper checks.
Following push-back, the SSA reversed this decision in late July 2025, confirming it will continue issuing paper checks for beneficiaries who have no other means to receive payments, such as those without bank accounts or access to electronic payment systems.
The agency is still encouraging a shift to electronic payments, citing faster processing, enhanced security, and creditor protections under federal law (e.g., Section 207 of the Social Security Act and the Consumer Credit Protection Act), which safeguard two months of benefits in bank accounts or Direct Express cards but not cash from paper checks.
Beneficiaries currently receiving paper checks are being notified to switch to direct deposit or Direct Express cards.
Those who cannot transition due to specific circumstances—such as mental impairment, living in remote areas without digital infrastructure, or being 90 or older—can request a waiver from the Treasury Department’s Electronic Payment Solution Center at 1-855-290-1545 or by submitting a form. Without a waiver, payments may be disrupted after September 30, 2025.
To ensure uninterrupted benefits, affected recipients should act promptly to set up electronic payments through their bank, a my Social Security account online, or by contacting the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Waiver Process Details
The waiver process for continuing to receive Social Security Administration (SSA) paper checks after the planned transition to electronic payments (effective September 30, 2025) is designed for beneficiaries who cannot use direct deposit or Direct Express prepaid debit cards due to specific hardships.
Here are the details based on available information:
Eligibility for a Waiver
Waivers are granted for limited circumstances, such as:
How to Request a Waiver
Submit a Waiver Form
Required Information
You may need to provide:
Processing and Approval
Next Steps if You Don’t Qualify
Important Notes
If you need specific forms or further assistance, contact the Electronic Payment Solution Center or your local SSA office, as processes may vary slightly by region.