Americans who rely on Social Security are about to face a major change starting March 31, 2025. This Social Security’s new rule will require millions of beneficiaries to prove their identity in person instead of over their phones as it was previously. This new Social Security rule changes everything for disabled individuals, retirees, and other beneficiaries.
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the change is geared towards reducing fraud and protecting their benefits. However, the timing of these changes has raised concerns considering that it comes at a time when Social Security offices are being closed and thousands of SSA workers are being laid off while phone wait times are getting longer. Now that millions will have to visit offices in person, there are fears that this Social Security Change will make it harder or delay access to benefits.
What You Need to Know About the New Social Security Rule
The new Social Security rule eliminates proof of identity via phone. Starting March 31, 2025, individuals who need to apply for benefits or update their direct deposit information will have to;
- Verify their identity online through a “My Social Security” account.
- Prove their identity in person by visiting a local SSA office.
Previously, these things could be done over the phone but soon it will be impossible to do so. Therefore, if you want to apply for benefits your claim will not be processed until you visit a SSA office.
The Acting Commissioner said that this change is necessary because Americans deserve to have their Social Security records protected with the utmost integrity and vigilance. The SSA said that this change is meant to save the agency from fraudulent claims and direct deposit scams which have claimed over $100 million each year.
The Good News About This Change
Previously, it took 30 days for SSA to update the process whenever beneficiaries changed their direct deposit information online. With the new Social Security rule taking effect, direct deposit will now be processed in one business day whether in person or online.
Why Millions of Beneficiaries are Worried About This Change
Although the new Social Security rule is meant to reduce fraud, many experts have warned that it could cause serious problems. Here are some of the problems that beneficiaries are likely to experience following the latest office closures and laying off workers in attempts to reduce costs and waste of government funds.
-
Longer Waiting Times and Appointment Backlogs
Social Security offices were still struggling to keep up with high demands even before this change. Due to the new Social Security change, the average wait time for an in-person which is already over a month will be even longer. Phone hold times to schedule appointments which could take more than two hours are also expected to take longer than two hours.
-
Hardship for Disabled Beneficiaries, Old Retirees, and Those Living in Rural Areas
Many older and disabled beneficiaries who struggle with mobility issues will find it difficult to visit SSA’s offices in person. Those living in rural areas who have to travel miles and take hours on the road to visit the nearest office will also struggle to have their direct bank details updated. Others with low income will have to strain financially to travel to SSA’s offices which are far away.
According to critics, the new Social Security rule could create unnecessary hardships for vulnerable Americans. Rep. John Larson, House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee said “By requiring seniors and disabled Americans to enroll online or in person at the same field offices they are trying to close, rather than over the phone, the government is making it harder to access benefits.”
How Social Security’s New Rule Affects You
If you have already received benefits and you do not need to update direct deposit details, then you are not affected. However, if you have to update these details, then you have to do so in person or online via “My Social Security.” If you are applying for Social Security benefits you must visit the SSA office in person. To avoid delays, especially with millions of individuals being affected, SSA is recommending people to schedule appointments.
Due to Social Security’s new rule, millions of people who used to verify their identity and update bank details via their phones will only do so in person or online. Although the new change is meant to prevent fraud, critics argue that it will make it harder for older and disabled Americans to access benefits.
Additionally, with the ongoing laying off of workers at SSA, and the closure of offices, the change will cause unnecessary delays for people who need their benefits.
For those affected, it is advisable to prepare by setting up a “My Social Security Account” or schedule an in-person appointment early to avoid the last-minute rush.