The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced changes to its identity proofing procedures for those applying for retirement benefits or making direct deposit changes. Starting April 14, beneficiaries must verify their identity through the agency’s “My Social Security” online platform or in person at an SSA field or post office. Under the new rules, the option to verify identity over the phone will no longer be available.
This change aims to reduce fraudulent payments and protect customers. However, the policy will not affect disability, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicare beneficiaries. Delma Cardona, SSA’s assistant deputy commissioner of operations, stated, “We’re hoping that addresses some of the concerns that we know are out there.” Initially, The agency planned to implement these changes on March 31, but this was postponed due to immediate pushback from beneficiaries and advocacy groups.
The agency is exploring a partnership with the Postal Service to address access concerns for beneficiaries residing far from SSA field offices, especially in rural areas.
Changes to SSA identity proofing
USPS offers in-person identity proofing at around 19,000 post office locations nationwide, compared to SSA’s approximately 1,230 field offices.
SSA is working on a “video service delivery” option for beneficiaries unable to travel for in-person visits. They can use their phone, they can use an iPad — they might be able to use their relative’s, if they don’t have one — to be able to prove their identity with Social Security,” Cardona said. Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek addressed these changes in a press release: “We have listened to our customers, advocates, and others, and we are updating our policy to provide better customer service to the country’s most vulnerable populations.”
The SSA clarified that those already receiving benefits do not need to visit an office to prove their identity unless they update direct deposit information.
The agency emphasized that beneficiaries do not need to call or visit if they are already receiving payments and have no current need to do business with the SSA. Critics argue that these changes could hinder vulnerable groups’ access to benefits. Max Richtman of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security commented, “While it is good that a bad policy is being postponed—and that some of the least mobile, most vulnerable groups are now exempted—it is still bad policy.
There was no reason to end identity validation by phone, and limiting it in any way creates an unnecessary hurdle for seniors and families claiming their earned benefits.”
The revised approach represents a significant shift in how millions of Americans must verify their identities to access their Social Security benefits.
Image Credits: Photo by Ben Sweet on Unsplash
