Overview
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) has delayed the implementation of stricter identity verification measures from March 31 to April 14, 2025, to allow for employee training and adjustments.
- Applicants for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are now exempt from the in-person identity verification requirement.
- The policy will still apply to retirement, survivors, and family benefit claims unless users can verify their identity online.
- The SSA has introduced exceptions for extreme dire-need cases, such as terminal illnesses or prisoner pre-release scenarios, to ease the burden on vulnerable populations.
- The changes come during a period of operational strain for the SSA, which is simultaneously reducing its workforce and closing field offices, raising concerns about service accessibility and delays.