Social Security Identity Verification Rules Tightened – Know the New Changes and Their Challenges
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has tightened the process of identity verification to prevent fraud and protect social security benefits. Although these new rules have been introduced to increase security, it can create new problems for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and those living in rural areas.
What are the changes in identity verification?
Now a more stringent verification process is being adopted to claim Social Security benefits or make changes to your Social Security Account. The main changes are as follows:
- People unable to do identity verification online will now have to compulsorily go to the SSA office and get verification done.
- Direct Deposit changes will now be processed in just 1 working day instead of 30 days.
- The facility of identity verification through phone has been completely removed. Now it will be mandatory to go to the SSA office in person for some transactions.
According to SSA Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek, these changes are being made to modernize the Social Security system, as the old process of identity verification was now obsolete.
Concerns about the new rules
Although the SSA considers these changes necessary and beneficial, many people and organizations are questioning them. Various social organizations, senior citizens associations and policy makers have objected to these rules, as it can create problems especially for the following groups:
- Elderly and vulnerable classes – Many senior citizens do not have internet access, due to which they cannot do online verification. Due to this, they will have to go to the SSA office, which can be difficult for them.
- People living in rural areas – Many people may have to travel long distances to reach the SSA office, which will create problems in travel expenses and time.
- Crowds and waiting times will increase in SSA offices – The requirement to go to the office for identity verification is likely to lead to long queues in SSA offices, which may cause beneficiaries to wait for hours.
- Removing phone verification will increase the problem – Earlier, people could verify their identity through the phone, but now this facility has been discontinued. This may cause trouble for many senior citizens, as they are not able to get verification done online or in person.
Nancy LeMond of AARP says that the government has implemented this change too quickly, due to which many senior citizens may face unnecessary difficulties.
Government’s clarification
SSA justified these changes, saying that these are necessary steps to prevent fraud. According to White House spokesman Harrison Fields, SSA loses $100 million every year due to fraud in direct deposits.
To solve this problem, the Department of Treasury’s “Account Verification Service (AVS)” system is being implemented, which will be able to verify bank account information instantly.
However, some leaders like Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear say that this new system may be inconvenient for low-income seniors and disabled persons. Especially for those who cannot travel long distances to reach SSA offices.
Impact on SSA offices
The biggest concern is whether SSA offices will be able to handle so many verification requests.
- 47 SSA offices are going to close, which will put more pressure on the remaining offices.
- There is already a shortage of staff, and the implementation of new rules may increase long waiting times.
- Elderly and disabled people may face more trouble, as they find it difficult to go to the office.
Nancy Altman of Social Security Works warns that if these changes are implemented too quickly, millions of beneficiaries will face extreme inconvenience and delays.
The SSA says they will monitor the situation and change policies if necessary. But many believe that these rules are being implemented too quickly, which will cause problems for those who need the most help from the SSA.
Conclusion
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is strengthening identity verification to reduce fraud in direct deposits. However, these changes may cause inconvenience to the elderly, people in rural areas, and persons with disabilities.
- Online verification will now be mandatory, and if unsuccessful, a visit to the SSA office will be required.
- Direct deposit changes will now happen in 1 day instead of 30 days.
- Phone verification has been removed completely.
- SSA offices are likely to be crowded and wait times will be longer.
If you’re a Social Security beneficiary, keep your information updated on SSA’s official website and contact an SSA office or helpline for any problems.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why is SSA making changes to identity verification?
The identity verification process is being strengthened to prevent fraud and protect benefits.
Who will be most affected by the new rules?
The elderly, people living in rural areas, and people with disabilities who may have trouble getting to an SSA office.
What changes have been made to direct deposit changes?
It will now be completed within 1 business day, whereas previously it took 30 days to process.
Will identity verification still be possible by phone?
No, SSA has ended the feature of identity verification by phone.
Is there an option for online verification?
Yes, people who can verify online will not need to visit an SSA office. But those who cannot do so will have to visit the office in person.