If you rely on Social Security benefits, new identity verification changes could affect you. As part of an effort to better protect individuals from fraud, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has st♈reng𓃲thened its identity verification process.

This means new steps to c🔴omplete routine actions like applying for benefits or updating direct deposit details.

What’s Changing and Why?

The Social Security Administration now requires that if you’re applying for retirement, survivor, or family benefits (spouse and child) and can’t use the online portal, you must verify your identity in-person at a Social Security office. This applies to both new applications and updates to existing accounts. Although individuals can begin the process of applying for benefits on the phone, they must still verify their identi🔜ty in-person to complete the process.

However, if you’re applying for 澳洲幸运5官方开奖结果体彩网:Social Security Di𝓀sa🌃bility Insurance (SSDI), Medicare, or 澳洲幸运5官方开奖结果体彩网:Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you💎 won’t be required to go in person because your identity 𒆙can be verified during the claims process.

Another change affects 澳洲幸运5官方开奖结果体彩网:direct deposit, which will now be processed within one business day, whether submitted online or in person. That’s a major improvement from the old 30-day delay on online requests.

According to the SSA’s acting commissioner, Lee Dudek, the agency is stepping up security because older methods of identity verification are no longer sufficient. These new steps are meant to better protect people’s personal information and benefits.

Navigating the New System

Now that the new rules are active, here’s how to manage Social Securi✱ty interactions under the updated policy:

• Use your “my Social Security” account for the fastest access. If you haven’t set one up, go to ssa.gov/my account.
• If you can’t use the online portal, be prepared to verify your identity in person. Call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment to avoid long waits. And be sure to gather all required documents before heading to the SSA office so you can complete your task in one visit.
• 澳洲幸运5官方开奖结果体彩网:Contact the SSA, specifically your local SSA office, if you’re unsure what’s needed or how to access services. You can use the to ensure you contact the correct location.

The Bottom Line

These changes went into effect on March 31, 2025, and while they’re meant to improve security and reduce 澳洲幸运5官方开奖结果体彩网:identity theft and fraud, they may be inconvenient for some individuals. However, there are steps you can take 🍌to ensure the process of verifying you⛦r identity goes as smoothly as possible.