Millions of Americans receiving Social Security benefits will soon be required to verify their identity in person, as part of a new anti-fraud measure. The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced Tuesday that starting March 31, phone-based identity verification will no longer be allowed.
The change affects both new applicants and current recipients who want to update their direct deposit information. Those unable to verify their identity through “my Social Security”, the agency’s online service, will be required to visit an SSA field office.
Concerns Over Accessibility & Office Closures
Retiree advocates warn that the policy will disproportionately impact older Americans, people with disabilities, and rural residents. Many live far from SSA offices and may struggle with online verification due to limited internet access.
These concerns are amplified by SSA’s ongoing field office closures. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has confirmed that leases for 47 SSA offices will not be renewed. Offices in states including Texas, Florida, Kentucky, and North Carolina are set to close.
SSA’s Justification: Fraud Prevention
Acting SSA Commissioner Leland Dudek defended the decision, stating the agency loses over $100 million annually due to direct deposit fraud.
“This is a common-sense measure,” Dudek explained. “The information we use for identity verification is already in the public domain, making it easy for fraudsters to exploit.”
The SSA also announced that processing times for direct deposit changes will be expedited from 30 days to just one business day.
Backlash from Lawmakers & Advocacy Groups
Critics argue that requiring in-person visits while closing SSA offices creates unnecessary hardships.
Rep. John Larson (D-CT), the ranking member of the House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee, accused President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s DOGE of intentionally creating chaos to push for Social Security privatization.
“Trump and Musk are trying to create inefficiencies at SSA so they can privatize the system,” Larson said in a statement.
Meanwhile, labor unions have filed a lawsuit seeking to block DOGE from accessing Social Security data, citing privacy concerns.
How Many People Will Be Affected?
Internal SSA estimates suggest that 75,000 to 85,000 people per week could be forced to visit field offices due to the new policy. The New York Times reported that DOGE also plans to cut 7,000 SSA employees, potentially increasing wait times for appointments.
SSA’s Future & AI Integration
While defending the policy, Dudek acknowledged that the SSA has faced unprecedented media scrutiny in recent months. In a memo to employees, he admitted to making mistakes but reaffirmed his commitment to improving the agency.
The SSA is also exploring AI-driven solutions to improve phone-based customer service, though no implementation timeline has been announced.
What’s Next?
With lawsuits pending and growing public backlash, Congress could step in to review or delay the new identity verification requirements. However, for now, recipients should prepare for in-person visits if they cannot complete the process online.
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