SSA (Social Security Administration) has proposed new policies in the identity verification system, and yes, they will be much stricter to prevent fraud and, above all, improve efficiency. Now, starting this June, any new applicant or beneficiary who modifies information in their account must undergo in-person checks. The SSA is clear about it, they want to put an end to the rise in fraud cases. But of course, that means there could be delays in some payments that beneficiaries rely on to survive each month. More than 68 million Americans benefit from this program. Stick around, we’ll explain what has changed so you don’t miss your monthly check.
SSA reform
The old online verification process is no longer enough. Now, certain procedures will require citizens to present original documents at a local office. According to the agency, the increase in stolen Social Security numbers and false claims made it necessary to “secure” the records.
Why now?
The SSA’s own annual report shows a rise in identity theft attempts since 2021… The pandemic accelerated digitalization, yes, but it also opened the door to scammers capable of sneaking into a system that’s falling apart. So, this reform aims to make sure every dollar goes to the right person.
But what has changed?
From now on, anyone applying for SSA benefits or making changes to their accounts will have to go through an extra identity verification step by visiting a Social Security office.
What are retirees worried about?
Mainly, that even though the SSA promises quick responses, the reality is that staffing shortages are already causing long wait times… If we now have to make in-person appointments, that could mean even more delays.
And for many retirees, Social Security is their only source of income. On top of that, many may even have trouble getting to a physical office.
What about new applicants?
People applying for benefits for the first time need to be prepared for longer processes. So get your original documents ready so that when you go to the office, everything is prepared for the security checks!
How do I get ready?
- Log in to “my Social Security” and make sure all your personal information matches your official documents.
- Prepare copies of your passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate. Bring the originals with you, but submit sealed photocopies to speed things up.
- Call your local office to book an appointment. Write down the agent’s name and the exact list of required documents.
- Of course, keep emails, receipts, and case numbers. If there’s a delay, you’ll have proof that you met the deadlines and can claim your payment retroactively!
- Ask for assistance: the SSA offers home visits in extreme cases. It also allows you to appoint an authorized representative.
What is the agency really after?
The tightening of Social Security identity verification has two goals: protecting the trust fund and boosting public confidence. According to the Office of the Inspector General, fraud losses have reached nearly 8 billion dollars over the past decade. So it’s necessary to stop that leak because that amount equals the average payment for 600,000 retirees…
However, public policy experts warn that any additional barrier risks excluding many people, not to mention those for whom going to an office (or completing online procedures) becomes an ordeal.
But that’s life, and identity verification is here to stay. Getting organized will be key for everyone to avoid losing their social benefits!
