The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that starting March 31, individuals who want to claim benefits but cannot verify their identity online must apply in person.
After this date, phone verification for identity proofing will no longer be available.
Why It Matters?
This change comes as several Social Security offices are being closed due to budget cuts from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
DOGE has identified 47 SSA field offices set to close, many in the southeastern and southern U.S. A significant number of approximately 1,230 field offices nationwide will be affected.
An SSA spokesperson told The Associated Press that most of the leases not being renewed are for in-person hearing spaces, as most hearings are now conducted online.
What To Know?
In a statement on Tuesday, the SSA said that over the next two weeks, it will begin transitioning to stricter identity proofing procedures for benefit claims and direct deposit changes.
Those unable to verify their identity through their online “my Social Security” account will need to visit a local SSA office in person.
A leaked SSA memo, reported by Popular Information, suggested that this change could lead to an additional 75,000 to 85,000 people visiting field offices weekly to verify their information. If this holds, it could mean around 4.42 million extra visits per year.
In February 2025, only 44.9% of benefit claim appointments were scheduled within 28 days, according to SSA data.
The agency said it has recalled all frontline staff to work five days a week to help handle the increased demand for in-person services.
What People Are Saying?
Lee Dudek, the acting commissioner of the SSA, stated on March 18: “Americans deserve to have their Social Security records protected with the utmost integrity and vigilance.
For too long, the agency has relied on outdated methods for identity verification. These changes will strengthen security and improve service.”
Representative John B. Larson, a Democrat from Connecticut, criticized the decision, saying: “This move is a deliberate effort to undermine Social Security to fund $2 trillion in tax breaks for the richest one percent.
Forcing seniors and disabled Americans to apply online or at shrinking field offices—while eliminating phone options—creates chaos and inefficiency to justify privatizing the system.”
Max Richtman, president and CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, told Newsweek:
“Creating barriers for people who have earned these benefits and pay for SSA operations with every paycheck reflects indifference—or even hostility—toward those relying on Social Security.”
What’s Next?
The SSA has launched a two-week transition period to train staff and ensure policies are in place before the March 31 deadline.
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