Major Social Security change is coming this month; what to know
The Social Security Administration announced this week a significant change to benefit claims and direct deposit changes.
Social Security, headed by Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek, wrote that the agency will transition to new identity proofing procedures.
“Americans deserve to have their Social Security records protected with the utmost integrity and vigilance,” Dudek said in the announcement. “For far too long, the agency has used antiquated methods for proving identity. Social Security can better protect Americans while expediting service.”
The Social Security Administration will enforce online digital identity proofing and in-person identity proofing.
Claims will no longer be able to be completed by phone, though people who can’t use the agency’s “my Social Security” online system can start claims over the phone, but must verify their identity in person before completing the claim.
The agency is recommending calling 800-772-1213 to request an in-person appointment to begin and complete the claim.
That may get more challenging for some as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) plans to close nearly 50 Social Security offices across the country.
The agency is undertaking a two-week transition plan, which will conclude on March 31. After that time, the Social Security Administration will enforce online digital identity proofing and in-person identity proofing.
People who do not already have a “my Social Security” account can create one at www.ssa.gov/myaccount/.
Additionally, direct deposit changes will be expedited to one day, according to the announcement.
Dudek is a 25-year federal employee recently promoted to head the Social Security Administration by the Trump Administration. The Social Security Administration had recently opened an investigation into Dudek over whether he improperly shared information with DOGE associates and then the Trump Administration promoted him.
In a recent memo to staff, Dudek said: “Personally, I have made some mistakes, which makes me human like you. I promise you this, I will continue to make mistakes, but I will learn from them. My decisions will always be with the best intentions for this agency, the people we serve, and you.”