By Those who receive Social Security benefits have been hit with a flurry of news this year, from a raise in the retirement age to a new overpayment policy. In yet another update, the identity verification process for recipients and applicants will be tightened to cut down on fraud, with phone calls being eliminated as an accepted option. Keep reading to learn more about how the Social Security Administration will now require in-person or online identity checks. Plus, find out what your options are once the policy goes into effect.
What are the changes with the Social Security identity checks?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is planning to take steps to cut down on any fraudulent claims. The major change, which will go into effect March 31, will impact both new Social Security applicants and current recipients.
The Associated Press reports that people will soon no longer be able to verify their identity via a phone call with the SSA. Instead, they will only be offered two options to complete the process.
The first: Utilizing the “my Social Security” online service. The website utilizes “internet ID proofing,” according to an internal memo viewed by the Washington Post. It states on the page that utilizing the account is quick because it “gives you immediate access to important information and tools, putting you in control of your time!”
Anyone who does not properly verify their identity online will have to visit field agency offices in person for an in-person identity check. There are currently 10 regional offices and 1,230 field offices located around the U.S.
Why this new Social Security policy is a concern
These impending changes could result in 75,000 to 85,000 people visiting the field offices every week, reports the Post. Naturally, this may mean longer wait times, an increased demand for appointments and overwhelmed staff who work at the locations.
But the new policy also poses challenges for older populations who receive Social Security benefits. Retiree advocates are worried that people with limited Internet access and disabilities will struggle with the change as they will have to find a way to get to the office. This includes anyone applying for benefits or existing recipients who need to update their direct deposit information.
Anyone who lives in a rural community may also find themselves with a hefty travel time if they need to visit a field office that’s located in an urban area.
How to complete your Social Security identity verification
If you have Internet access and need to verify your identity with the SSA, the best method would be to make a free online account if you don’t already have one. When signing up, you will create your “my Social Security” account through Login.gov, the administration’s credential service provider. This will involve making a username and password, setting up two-step verification and securely verifying your identity.
You can also access your information using an ID.me account if you have one. This service already meets the government’s online identity proofing and authentication requirements.
Once your account is set up, you will be able to request a replacement Social Security card, change your address, print a benefit verification letter, check your application status and more.
Need to get to a field office? You can search for one near you here by entering your zip code. An important note: The official website currently states that “If you need in-person help, you must call to make an appointment before you visit. Additional information related to online services and scheduling an appointment can be found at www.SSA.gov/appointment.”
That may change once the policy goes into effect at the end of the month.
