Can a landlord receive a paper check if they choose to ?

I think she is talking about the landords who join section 8 and start renting to section 8 tenants. Section 8 staff would only pay landlords by direct deposit. Tenants can pay by money orders check or what ever way the landlord decide

Yes landlords can choose what type of payment they would like to receive. Most landlords require the tenant to pay in cash or by money order.