New Government Checks Can Be Folded, Spindled
WASHINGTON — Goodby government green and hello pale peach. The familiar punch-card check used for the last 40 years to disburse Uncle Sam’s wealth is being replaced, along with the ominous warning “Do not fold, spindle or mutilate” that was printed on each check.
The Treasury Department announced today that it is beginning a two-year phase-out of the 600 million punch-card checks it issues annually to people on Social Security, welfare recipients, government employees and people getting income tax refunds.
The new check will be printed on lightweight paper with a reproduction of the Statue of Liberty on one side.
The government expects to save $6 million a year through the use of a lighter paper stock, which will also make the checks easier to store.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
