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Social Security Implements New Identity Rules, Raising Accessibility Concerns

The SSA requires internet or in-person ID verification for phone claims, as workforce cuts and office closures strain services for vulnerable populations.

Florida, Sebring, Social Security Administration, federal government agency.
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A Social Security office in St Clair Shores, Mich.; Photo: Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Overview

  • An internal SSA memo outlines changes requiring internet or in-person identity verification for phone-based claims, citing fraud prevention as justification.
  • The policy is expected to disproportionately impact elderly and disabled individuals who may lack internet access or the ability to travel to SSA offices.
  • SSA workforce reductions of 7,000 employees and multiple office closures are predicted to exacerbate operational strain and service delays.
  • The memo estimates an additional 75,000 to 85,000 weekly in-person visits would be required, overwhelming already overburdened SSA offices.
  • Concerns about service disruptions, legal challenges, and congressional scrutiny have been acknowledged internally by SSA leadership.