The Social Security Administration (SSA) is implementing stricter identity verification measures that may impact you. Here are some things you should know:
INCREASED SECURITY MEASURES:
The SSA is tightening identity-proofing to combat fraudulent claims. This means increased security around proving who you are to the SSA.
CHANGES TO VERIFICATION:
Beginning March 31st, phone verification will no longer be an option. If online verification through “my Social Security” (online) is unsuccessful, in-person verification at a Social Security field office will be required.
WHO IS AFFECTED:
This change affects both new Social Security applicants and existing recipients. Specifically, those wanting to change their direct deposit information will be subject to these new rules.
IN-PERSON VISITS TO SSA:
Consumers who have difficulty with online verification or who need to make changes to direct deposit information may need to visit a local Social Security office.
DIRECT DEPOSIT CHANGES:
The SSA is also speeding up the processing time for direct deposit changes. Online and in person direct deposit changes will be processed within one business day.
In essence, please be aware that you may need to visit a Social Security office in person if you cannot verify their identity online. This is being done to protect Social Security benefits from fraud.
To schedule an in-person visit with the Social Security Administration: SSA National Toll-Free: 1-800-772-1213
Call your Area Agency on Aging for help: Aging Ahead 1-800-243-6060
Comments 13
Janet E. Ward
Thank you for this information.May God bless you always.
Daphne Phillips
Informative, but remember Missouri has a ‘new’ license. (can’t remember what it’s called). Will the SSA accept ‘past Missouri’ identification valid? It would be good if your AA offices would check and include all that is needed for in person review.
Aging Ahead
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will continue to accept current, non-REAL ID compliant IDs for purposes unrelated to federal travel or access to federal facilities, but will enforce stronger identity verification procedures, including online and in-person proofing, starting March 31, 2025.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
REAL ID Act and its Impact:
The REAL ID Act sets security standards for state-issued identification cards, including driver’s licenses, for purposes like boarding domestic flights and accessing federal facilities.
SSA’s Role:
The SSA is responsible for verifying Social Security numbers and issuing Social Security cards, and they will continue to do so regardless of the REAL ID Act.
Stronger Identity Verification:
The SSA is implementing stronger identity verification procedures, including online digital identity proofing and in-person identity proofing, starting March 31, 2025.
Acceptable Documents:
The SSA will continue to accept certain documents as proof of identity, including current, non-expired documents showing your name, identifying information (date of birth or age), and preferably a recent photograph.
Missouri Compliance:
Missouri is compliant with the REAL ID Act, and federal agencies may accept any REAL ID-compliant card issued and continue to accept for official purposes Missouri-issued driver licenses and nondriver ID cards that are not REAL ID-compliant until May 7, 2025.
Non-REAL ID IDs for Other Purposes:
Non-REAL ID compliant IDs will continue to be valid for state purposes, such as driving, voting, and verifying age.
redie
so glad this update shared the data
Juanita Church
I Just want to say Thank you for all you do for us
Brenda Morgan
Thank You for the information.
William Henderson
Thank you or this update. I will share this information with our family and friends.
F. Foxx
thanks for the info.
Donna W
Thank you for the information.
Eva Fox
Thank you for the update•
matias rodriguez
Thanks very much for the information provided in special for the non
real driven licence. May God bless un….
Shirley Wells
I find these changes rather upsetting, especially for those requiring assistance with changes or starting their benefits. It’s unfortunate that this vunerable population is asked to deal with these disruptions.
Carlyn Webber
Good to know I must obtain a real Id since I’m still hanging around. Unfortunately a real Id requires a lot for someone who is extremely limited physically!!