Beginning April 14, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is launching updated identity verification procedures aimed at curbing fraud and identity theft.
This move follows significant financial losses, totaling millions in diverted benefits, between 2013 and 2018. With these changes, the SSA intends to better protect beneficiaries and uphold the security of the Social Security system.
How the New Phone Verification Will Work?
Starting April 14, every claim submitted by phone will go through an anti-fraud check. If a claim is flagged as potentially fraudulent, the applicant will need to verify their identity in person before moving forward.
If the claim passes the check without issues, it can be processed without an in-person visit. This approach is designed to balance security with convenience.
What Does This Mean for Current Beneficiaries?
If You’re Already Receiving Benefits and Don’t Need to Update Your Direct Deposit Information, You Don’t Need to Take Any Action. Payments Will Continue as Usual.
The New Rules Primarily Impact New Applicants and Those Changing Their Deposit Details. These Individuals Must Verify Their Identity Either Online Through a My Social Security Account or By Visiting a Local SSA office.
Who Is Exempt from In-Person Verification?
There Are Specific Exceptions to The New Policy. Individuals Applying for Medicare, Social Security Disability Insurance (ssdi), or Supplemental Security Income (ssi) Can Still Verify Their Identity Over the Phone. This Measure Helps Those Who May Face Difficulties Using Online Tools or Traveling to An Office.
Important Security Reminder
The SSA stresses that It Will Never Request Identity Verification via Text Message. Any Such Messages Should Be Ignored, and Beneficiaries Should Remain Alert to Potential Phishing Emails Attempting to Exploit the Changes. Staying Cautious Is Key to Safeguarding Personal Information and Benefits.
Community Concerns and SSA’s Response
Some Advocacy Groups Have Expressed Concern About how The New Policy Might Affect Those with Limited Internet Access or Transportation.
The SSA has Acknowledged These Concerns and Promises to monitor the Rollout Closely, Making Changes Where Necessary to ensure the Process Remains Accessible for Everyone.
What to Expect Moving Forward?
The SSA estimates that out of The Roughly 4.5 Million Phone Claims Received Each Year, about 70,000 Could Be Flagged for In-Person Verification.
Understanding the New Procedures Now Can Help Individuals Prepare in Case Additional Identity Checks Are Required.
The SSA will continue to evaluate the Effectiveness of The New System and Make Improvements as needed.
Beneficiaries Are Encouraged to Stay Informed, Ask Questions, and Reach out To the SSA for Support. Being Aware of These Updates Is Crucial to Navigating the System Confidently and Protecting Your Benefits.
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