The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced new rules that will require benefit recipients to visit government offices in person to verify their identities. The agency said it will no longer allow new recipients to verify their identities over the phone. Instead, they will have to use an online ID verification system or visit a field office if that doesn’t work.
DOGE (aka Destruction of Government by Elon) is now making it harder to file for disability.
https://t.co/NOz9mIMl0F— Rep. Mike Levin (@RepMikeLevin) March 20, 2025
Returning recipients who want to update their direct deposit information will also have to pass the online ID verification or visit an office. The SSA said these steps are being taken to enhance the security of its services. However, the policy shift is likely to force millions of Social Security recipients and applicants to visit government offices to get their benefits.
Americans pay into Social Security for their entire working lives. Now, President Trump and Elon Musk are making it harder for our seniors to receive their hard-earned benefits. This is just not right.https://t.co/yc9qNKbhYm
— Senator Ben Ray Luján (@SenatorLujan) March 19, 2025
In-person visit challenges for seniors
This could be a challenge for many elderly Americans who may not have reliable internet access or struggle with navigating digital platforms. The changes come as the SSA’s new director, linked to Elon Musk’s DOGE, reportedly plans to reduce the agency’s staff in the coming months.
Internal memos suggest the SSA’s own staff are aware the new policies could drive down service delivery and cause dysfunction. The memos note the changes will create “increased field office traffic,” “longer call wait times,” and “delayed processing.”
Critics argue that by requiring in-person or online verifications while closing many field offices, the administration is inadvertently creating chaos and inefficiencies that could pave the way for privatizing the system. Retiree advocates and some lawmakers warn the new measures could place undue burdens on older Americans, especially those in rural areas or with disabilities or limited mobility.
The development has sparked public concern, with many worried about the broader impact of the cuts and office closures on their ability to receive timely benefits. The SSA’s measures, part of a broader effort to reduce government spending, continue to be a hot topic nationwide.
Image Credits: Photo by Luke Southern on Unsplash
