Social Security recipients have about 2 weeks to prepare for stronger ID verification requirements that could leave millions of vulnerable Americans stranded without access to their benefits.
At a Glance
- Starting April 14, 2025, Social Security will require stronger identity verification, eliminating phone verification options
- Most beneficiaries must either verify identity online through “my Social Security” account or visit a local office in person
- The change aims to prevent fraud after $33.5 million was diverted from nearly 21,000 recipients
- People applying for SSDI, Medicare, or SSI are exempt from the new in-person requirements
- 47 Social Security offices are slated for closure while the agency plans to lay off at least 7,000 employees
What’s Changing and Why
The Social Security Administration is implementing new identity verification procedures that will fundamentally change how millions of Americans interact with the agency. Beginning April 14, 2025, identity verification by phone will no longer be an option for many benefit claimants. This overhaul comes after the agency documented significant fraud cases where benefits were redirected, resulting in $33.5 million being stolen from 20,878 recipients. The change was originally scheduled for March 31 but was pushed back two weeks after widespread criticism and confusion.
According to SSA Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek, “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.” Despite the security improvements, critics worry the new requirements could create significant barriers for the elderly and disabled who rely on these benefits.
How to Prepare Before the Deadline
The most important step Social Security beneficiaries can take right now is creating a “my Social Security” online account. This account allows beneficiaries to verify their identity online rather than making an in-person office visit. To create an account, visit the SSA website (ssa.gov) and have your Social Security number, a valid email address, and either a U.S. mailing address or U.S. driver’s license or state ID card ready. You’ll also need access to a phone or email address to receive security codes.
“Over the next two weeks, SSA will carefully transition to stronger identity proofing procedures for both benefit claims and direct deposit changes.” – SSA
If you’re unable to create an online account, plan ahead for an in-person office visit. The SSA recommends scheduling appointments rather than walking in, especially given the anticipated increase in office traffic. Bring multiple forms of identification, including a driver’s license or state ID, passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued identification. The earlier you schedule your appointment, the better, as offices may become overwhelmed as the deadline approaches.
Who is Exempt from the New Requirements
Not everyone will face the same stringent verification process. After significant backlash, the SSA has created exemptions for certain vulnerable populations. Individuals applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can still complete their claims over the phone if they cannot use their online account. This exemption was created because these programs have multiple verification points throughout the application process.
“In addition to extending the policy’s effective date by two weeks to ensure our employees have the training they need to help customers, Medicare, Disability, and SSI applications will be exempt from in-person identity proofing because multiple opportunities exist during the decision process to verify a person’s identity.” – Lee Dudek
Additionally, the SSA states it will not enforce identity proofing requirements in “extreme dire-need situations,” including terminal cases and prisoner pre-release scenarios. A process is being developed to allow documentation and management approval to bypass the policy in these dire need cases. However, these exceptions appear to be limited and discretionary.
Current Recipients vs. New Applicants
Current Social Security beneficiaries should understand they’re only affected by these changes if they need to modify direct deposit information and cannot verify their identity online. Routine benefit payments will continue without interruption. However, if you anticipate needing to change your direct deposit information in the future, it’s best to set up your online account now rather than waiting until it becomes urgent.
For new applicants not in exempt categories, the process now requires either online identity verification or an in-person office visit from the beginning. The SSA recommends scheduling an in-person appointment to complete claims in a single interaction, which could potentially save time given the agency’s staffing challenges and planned office closures. Once the new system is in place, processing time for direct deposit change requests will be reduced to just one business day.
