Social Security Administration Modifies Identity Verification Policy Amid Controversy
SSA changes its identity verification policy, allowing phone claims for certain beneficiaries, and postpones implementation date to April 14 due to feedback.
Subscribe to unlock this story
We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $3/month or $30/year, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!
Get Started
The change, along with another new rule barring beneficiaries from changing their bank account information over the telephone, could send millions more people to the agency’s offices, forcing folks to wait longer for payments and straining Social Security’s operations at a time when the agency is downsizing its staff, advocates have said.
Social Security Administration delays and curtails new anti-fraud policy | Politics
CNN·24d·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.Leans LeftThis outlet slightly leans left.
While the policy is sold as a measure that’s crucial to make sure American taxpayer dollars are going to the right people, in the correct amount, there is concern over how the change may affect some seniors.
New Social Security clawback policy starts this week: What to know
The Hill·24d·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
The new policy is supposedly intended to prevent 'fraud,' without any proof that phone claims were being paid out fraudulently.
Social Security officials partially walk back plans for in-person verification
NPR·24d·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.The changes are intended to combat fraud and waste within the system, which President Donald Trump and officials in his administration have claimed are widespread.
Social Security Administration backtracks on some ID requirements after backlash
Associated Press·24d·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Summary
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has revised its controversial identity verification requirements that would have necessitated in-person verification for many beneficiaries. The updated policy is aimed at providing better customer service and addressing concerns from lawmakers and advocacy groups. Applicants for Medicare, disability benefits, and Supplemental Security Income will be exempt from in-person verification if unable to use the online portal. The implementation of the policy has been postponed to April 14, allowing time for further employee training. Criticism persists regarding the potential barriers the new rules create for vulnerable populations.
Perspectives
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a partial rollback of a policy requiring in-person identity verification for many beneficiaries, temporarily exempting those applying for disability or Medicare from this requirement.
Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek stated the delay in policy implementation will provide necessary training for staff and improve customer service for vulnerable populations.
Advocates have raised concerns over the justification for these identity checks, suggesting they may be rooted in unfounded fraud claims, and have called for a more deliberate approach to changes affecting Social Security services.
FAQs
No FAQs available for this story.