Starting April 14, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is rolling out new identity verification rules that will directly impact how millions of Americans apply for and manage their benefits. This change is designed to curb rising fraud attempts and strengthen the integrity of the SSA’s identity-proofing system. However, it also introduces some significant hurdles for people who cannot complete online verification.
What’s Changing and Why
The new rules primarily affect individuals applying for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary benefits (such as spousal or child benefits) who are unable to verify their identity online using the SSA’s my Social Security portal.
As of April 14, if your identity cannot be confirmed digitally, you will be required to complete the verification in person at a local SSA office. The agency cited increasing concerns over fraud, especially during phone applications, as the driving force behind this policy shift.
According to the SSA’s official blog, out of the 4.5 million annual telephone claims, around 70,000 cases are flagged for potential fraud. The new verification method is designed to mitigate those risks and safeguard the integrity of Social Security programs.
Who’s Affected?
- In-Person Verification Required for:
- Retirement benefit applicants
- Survivor benefit claimants
- Spouses or children filing for auxiliary benefits
- Individuals unable to complete identity verification online
- Still Allowed by Phone or Online:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Medicare benefit claims
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applications
These services remain unaffected by the new ID policy and can be completed via telephone.
Changes to Direct Deposit Updates
Another important update relates to how you manage your direct deposit information. Those unable to access the direct deposit section of their SSA online account will no longer be allowed to update their banking details via phone.
Instead, they will be asked to visit a local SSA office or call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment for in-person assistance.
You can find your local SSA office using the SSA Office Locator.
How to Prepare Before April 14
To avoid last-minute confusion or delays in receiving your benefits, the SSA recommends taking the following steps now:
Create or Update Your my Social Security Account
Make sure your account is active and that all personal information, especially your address and phone number, is up to date. Create an account here: www.ssa.gov/myaccount
Check Your Identity Verification Status
Attempt to verify your identity through the online portal in advance. If unsuccessful, plan a visit to your nearest SSA office.
Gather Identification Documents
Bring official documents like your Social Security card, state-issued ID, or U.S. passport when visiting in person.
Plan Ahead for Appointments
Wait times at SSA offices may increase as more individuals are required to verify in person. Schedule your visit early via the official SSA phone line.
Criticism and Concerns
While the SSA maintains that these changes are critical for fraud prevention, critics argue the policy could pose challenges for elderly individuals, rural residents, and those with limited mobility or transportation options.
Advocacy groups, including the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, have raised alarms that the shift may limit access to benefits for some vulnerable Americans.
In a report by NPR, experts suggested that rural residents with limited internet access or who live hours from an SSA office could face the brunt of the burden.
Final Thoughts
While the SSA’s new identity verification requirements aim to tighten security and reduce fraud, they could inadvertently make it more difficult for certain populations to access essential benefits.
Beneficiaries are advised to act early—especially those who have not yet created an online account or whose identity cannot be verified digitally.
Ensuring your records are current and scheduling in-person visits ahead of time will help prevent service delays as the April 14 deadline approaches.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Filza specializes in simplifying financial topics for everyday readers. Whether breaking down Canada’s tax guides or U.S. benefits like SNAP and VA Disability, Filza’s relatable writing style ensures readers feel confident and informed. Follow her insights on LinkedIn or reach out via email at [email protected].