The Social Security Administration (SSA) is committed to providing a secure, fast and customer-friendly service. In doing so, Social Security is implementing a new Security Authentication PIN (SAP) feature for individuals with online Social Security accounts as of August 2025. This implementation is meant to improve phone calls and make this more secure when beneficiaries contact the National 800 Number.
Why the SAP Feature Is Being Updated
As a top priority, Social Security intends on protecting beneficiaries’ identity. There has been an increase in risks related to identity theft and fraudulent activity and therefore, Social Security is taking measures to improve the security related to personal information. Simultaneously, the department also understands that efficient service is also important to customers. The improved SAP feature is meant to do both, improve security and efficiency and this will ensure that beneficiaries receive the help they require.
Benefits of Using the Security Authentication PIN
The improved SAP feature delivers several advantages to users:
- Quicker Service: Customers who use an SAP can expect to save around 3 minutes during a typical call with SSA agents. This represents a 30% reduction in average call time.
- Greater Protection: The SAP offers an additional form of identity verification and this adds more security to the beneficiaries’ account. This helps protect personal information.
- Easy Integration: The feature connects directly with your existing my Social Security account and is simple to set up and use.
How Will the SAP Feature Work?
The SAP feature will work when a beneficiary calls the Social Security’s National 800 Number. The beneficiary will have the option to verify their identity using their Personal Identification Number (PIN). As long as they have a Social Security online account. By entering this pin, the SSA agents will confirm the identity of beneficiary as quick as possible, and thereafter proceed to assisting them with their request. By shortening the identity-verification step, the wait time is decreased and problem solving can happen more quickly.
Who Is Eligible for the SAP Feature?
Anyone who has a my Social Security account will be eligible to use the SAP feature. However, it’s important to highlight:
- Enrolment is entirely optional.
- If you choose not to use SAP or if you don’t have a my Social Security account, you will still be able to access all services by using our standard phone verification process.
- You do not need to visit a field office to activate SAP.
In simple terms, the SAP is a new option but is not compulsory for users to utilize.
Do You Need a my Social Security Account?
Even though this SAP feature is optional, it is strongly advised that beneficiaries open a my Social Security account if they have not already done so. The online account gives users access to various secure services including:
- Viewing your earnings history
- Estimating future retirement benefits
- Reviewing benefit statements
- Updating personal contact information
- Checking the status of applications or appeals
The Bottom Line
Social Security is actively working on methods to improve the efficiency and security of their operations. The SAP feature is a major upgrade for customers who use phone-based services. It is a much easier and faster way to verify beneficiaries’ identity. It also reduces the wait times on phone calls and provides protection of personal information. It is important to note that enrolment in SAP is optional but recommend, but if customers choose not to use this, they will still have access to services.
Beneficiaries should consider creating an online Social Security account so that they can have easier access to managing their benefits. This is also a more fast and reliable manner.