Need to Know: Federal Government Moving to Phase out Cheques in Favour of Direct Deposit

The Government of Canada will increase the use of direct deposit by phasing out cheques, including all pension payments by April 2016.  Retirees who receive federal public service pensions, including Canadian forces and RCMP pensions, should note that these pensions will move to direct deposit by April 1st, 2013.  They should receive a enrolment package at the end of January 2013.  RCMP pensioners will be contacted directly by the RCPM pension organization.

For all other payments such as the Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security and Veterans pension, the deadline for the move is April 1st, 2016.

The initiative will reduce costs and it is believed that it may help prevent certain types of fraud.  CARP will be inquiring about plans for seniors who do not use bank accounts and cash cheques directly through other instructions.

Additional Information:

Click here for more information about direct deposits please

To find out more about the Receiver General and to enroll for direct deposit, please visit

Click here to see the Government News Release