The Social Security Administration (SSA) has officially announced that starting March 31, 2025, it will no longer allow beneficiaries to verify their identity through phone calls. This decision aims to reduce fraud and ensure stricter security. However, it has sparked serious concerns, especially among the elderly and disabled, who may struggle with the new online verification system or visiting field offices.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about this change, the impact on beneficiaries, and the political reactions surrounding it.
Social Security Identity Verification: Changes Effective March 2025
Starting from March 31, 2025, anyone receiving Social Security benefits will have to verify their identity online through the “My Social Security” portal. The previous option to verify via phone calls will be discontinued to prevent fraud.
What Happens If You Can’t Verify Online?
Beneficiaries who cannot verify their identity online will have to visit an SSA field office in person to complete the process. This requirement applies to both:
- New applicants seeking benefits.
- Existing beneficiaries who want to change direct deposit details or update information.
Faster Processing for Direct Deposit Changes
Along with these changes, the SSA has also promised to speed up direct deposit change requests. Previously, online requests for direct deposit modifications took up to 30 days to process. Under the new rules, these changes will be expedited to just one day.
Why the Rush?
According to Leland Dudek, the acting SSA commissioner, the agency has been losing $100 million per year due to social security deposit fraud. By moving to faster verification and stricter controls, the administration hopes to protect funds and offer quicker service to beneficiaries.
Democrats Raise Concerns for the Elderly and Disabled
Out of the 72.5 million Social Security beneficiaries, many are elderly or disabled individuals who may not have access to technology or face mobility challenges.
Criticism from John Larson
John Larson, the top Democrat on the House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee, voiced concerns over this decision. He criticized former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk for causing chaos and inefficiencies in SSA operations. Larson accused them of pushing for this policy change to privatize the system and force more elderly and disabled individuals into field offices that are already closing.
Public Reactions: Worries Over Government Spending Cuts
Elon Musk has stirred controversy by calling Social Security a “Ponzi scheme” and claiming that the system is a prime target for reducing government spending. His statements, combined with the Trump administration’s cuts to old-age benefits programs, have left many Americans worried.
Legal Challenges
Labor unions have now filed a federal lawsuit demanding an emergency stop to DOGE’s access to sensitive Social Security data. Voters are also questioning the administration’s motives behind making verification harder for vulnerable populations.
What This Means for You
If you’re a Social Security beneficiary or planning to apply for benefits, it’s essential to:
- Set up and familiarize yourself with the “My Social Security” online portal.
- Be prepared to visit a field office in person if you face challenges with online verification.
- Keep an eye on any further updates or legal changes that might impact this process.
The new rules may streamline services and reduce fraud, but they also introduce challenges for those who rely on phone-based verification. Staying informed is key to avoiding disruptions to your benefits.
