To safeguard Social Security information and stop fraud, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is implementing a number of significant security improvements.
The government is putting stronger verification procedures in place to make sure that only the legitimate recipients receive benefits in light of the growth in identity theft and financial fraud.
SSA will implement stricter identification verification standards for benefit claims and direct deposit changes over the course of the next two weeks.
People will need to provide identification in person at a local Social Security office if they are unable to use their my Social Security online account, which needs digital identity verification.
Whether the request is made in person or online, the agency is also speeding up the processing of adjustments to direct deposits, cutting the wait period from 30 days to just one working day.
Increasing security while maintaining effectiveness
Lee Dudek, Social Security’s acting commissioner, underlined the significance of these changes.
“Americans deserve to have their Social Security records protected with the utmost integrity and vigilance. For far too long, the agency has used antiquated methods for proving identity. Social Security can better protect Americans while expediting service,” Dudek stated.
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In order to facilitate a seamless transition, SSA is providing its staff with a two-week training program that will provide them the skills they need to successfully apply the new policy.
Online digital identification verification and in-person proofing will be required after the transition period concludes on March 31, 2025.
SSA will let claims to be started over the phone for individuals who are unable to access the my Social Security web site; but, an in-person visit will be necessary for final processing in order to verify the applicant’s identity.
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Although walk-ins will still be accepted, the agency strongly encourages making an appointment in advance to finish the claim in a single visit.
The two choices available to those who need to change their direct deposit information but are unable to do it online are making an appointment by phoning 1-800-772-1213 or going in person to an SSA office.
