Trump Admin Roles Out Updated Social Security Changes
The Social Security Administration is rolling out new identity proofing requirements starting April 14, 2025, aimed at enhancing benefit security and reducing fraud. Here’s what you need to know about who’s affected and what’s exempt.
What’s Changing with Social Security in 2025?
Starting April 14, 2025, the SSA will require stronger identity verification—including in-person proofing—for individuals who can’t access their my Social Security accounts and need to apply for certain services. This policy is part of the agency’s initiative to prevent fraud and deliver benefits better.
“We are updating our policy to provide better customer service to the country’s most vulnerable populations,” said Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek.
Who Will Not Need In-Person Verification?
The in-person requirement does not apply to those applying for:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Medicare
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Applicants for these programs can complete claims entirely over the phone, even if they can’t use their online accounts.
Why These Programs Are Exempt
The SSA confirmed these exemptions are due to multiple existing identity verification checkpoints throughout the application and decision-making processes. This ensures security without creating unnecessary barriers for vulnerable individuals.
Who Will Be Required to Verify Identity In-Person?
Applicants who can’t use their my Social Security account and are applying for:
- Retirement benefits
- Survivor benefits
- Auxiliary benefits (Spouse or Child)
These individuals must verify their identity either:
- Digitally, if capable, or
- In-person, at a Social Security office
Exceptions to the Rule
Certain extreme cases, such as:
- Terminal illness applications
- Prisoner pre-release scenarios
may qualify for an exception, pending documentation and management approval. The SSA is actively developing a bypass process for these situations.
Direct Deposit Changes Also Affected
For those needing to change direct deposit information but cannot use the online portal, the following applies:
- Must visit a local SSA office, or
- Call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment
This move is intended to reduce identity theft risk tied to banking fraud.
SSA Boosts Office Staffing Nationwide
To support the new policy, the SSA has mandated five-day in-office workweeks for most employees, ensuring that field offices are fully staffed to assist with in-person verification.
Future Fraud Prevention Measures
In line with its fraud prevention efforts, SSA is preparing to implement the Account Verification Service (AVS) from the Department of the Treasury’s Bureau of Fiscal Service. This system offers instant bank verification to catch suspicious activity related to direct deposit changes.
How to Prepare
If you haven’t already, create a personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount to avoid potential in-person requirements. For the latest updates, visit the SSA’s official page on identity proofing requirements.
Bottom Line
The 2025 Social Security identity proofing update is designed to fight fraud while protecting access for vulnerable populations. Medicare, SSDI, and SSI applicants are exempt, while those applying for retirement-related benefits may need to appear in person unless they can verify their identity online.
Stay informed, act early, and protect your benefits.
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