Social Security Tightens Identity Verification, Requires In-Person Visits

New rules effective March 31 aim to combat fraud but raise concerns about accessibility and service delays for millions of Americans.

The Social Security Administration will require in-person identity verification for those unable to verify online, ending phone verification options.
The new policy, set to begin March 31, is expected to increase in-person visits to SSA offices by 75,000 to 85,000 weekly.
Advocates warn the changes will disproportionately impact elderly, disabled, and rural populations with limited mobility and internet access.
The Department of Government Efficiency has closed 47 SSA field offices and reduced staffing, exacerbating concerns about accessibility and delays.
The SSA defends the policy as necessary to prevent $100 million in annual direct deposit fraud while expediting processing times for updates to one business day.