Millions of Americans rely on Social Security benefits to make ends meet, so any changes to the program can be concerning.
Recently, under Elon Musk, who has called Social Security “the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time,”—the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been pushing major reforms as part of its broader anti-fraud campaign.
Since DOGE took over, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has been planning staff cuts and service reductions. One of the biggest changes is removing the option to verify identities over the phone.
Soon, most beneficiaries will no longer be able to authenticate their identity via phone calls when applying for benefits or updating direct deposit details.
Instead, they will need to do so online or in person at a Social Security office—options that may not be convenient or even feasible for everyone.
Many people currently enroll in Social Security entirely over the phone, so losing that option creates a significant burden, said Kathleen Romig, director of Social Security and disability policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.
Online enrollment typically requires a photo ID submission, which can be difficult for those without the right technology or knowledge.
“Not everyone is comfortable using a smartphone. Not everyone has internet access. And many older or disabled individuals don’t even have an ID if they no longer drive,” Romig explained.
Right now, those who struggle with online access can apply by calling Social Security’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.
But soon, that option will no longer be available for most. SSA justifies the change as a way to enhance identity verification and prevent fraud.
However, after criticism from Social Security advocates, the agency announced an exception for disability insurance, Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income applicants, who will still be able to apply entirely by phone.
But for those applying for retirement, survivor, or family benefits, phone applications will no longer be an option.
If they cannot apply online, they will need to visit an SSA field office. This change takes effect on April 14.
This policy shift affects most Social Security recipients since three-quarters of beneficiaries are retirees.
“The new rule forces more people to go online or travel—sometimes for hours—to a Social Security office,” said Nancy Altman, president of Social Security Works. “It’s creating a problem where none existed.”
Families applying for survivor benefits will also be impacted, as there is no online application for that program.
“Parents of minor children will now have to visit a Social Security office in person,” Romig noted. “These are grieving families who just lost a loved one.”
Additionally, beneficiaries will no longer be able to update their bank details by phone. All direct deposit changes must now be made online or in person.
The new requirements have confused, increasing the risk of scams. Importantly, if you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you do not need to verify your identity unless you are changing your direct deposit.
Scammers are taking advantage of the uncertainty, Romig warned. People have reported receiving calls saying, “Unless you provide your Social Security number and personal information right now, your benefits will stop.”
While SSA may call beneficiaries in specific cases, such as after an application or record update, it will never make unsolicited calls or demand personal details over the phone.
Ironically, Altman noted, DOGE’s anti-fraud measures are making scams more common.
“Fraudsters are pretending to be SSA agents, claiming they need to enforce these new rules, and threatening beneficiaries with benefit suspension unless they hand over personal information.”
For those frustrated by these changes, Altman suggests reaching out to their representatives. “Working families have earned and paid for first-class service, and they’re not getting it,” she said.
Altman, a Social Security advocate for 50 years, added, “I’ve never been as worried about the program as I am today.”
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