The Social Security Administration (SSA) is tightening its procedures to curb identity fraud. Within the next two weeks, the agency will roll out stronger identity proofing measures. This change will require more individuals to visit local offices to verify their identities. These new rules apply to new benefit claims and direct deposit changes.
Social Security: Impact on Populations
The new system eliminates the option to verify identities over the phone. This will heavily affect individuals who struggle with the online verification system. Older adults and people with disabilities, who often rely on Social Security, may face additional challenges.
Additionally, children and those without access to required online tools, like smartphones or driver’s licenses, will also need to visit local offices. Families will have to take extra steps to authenticate the identities of dependents.
Social Security: Shorter Processing
The SSA plans to expedite processing times for direct deposit changes. Previously, these changes were held for 30 days. With the new rules, they will now be processed within one business day.
However, the stronger proofing measures may lead to “more headaches and longer wait times,” according to AARP. Advocates worry this could overburden an already vulnerable population and strain the system further.
Social Security: Concerns Over Office Closures
This transition comes at a time when more than 40 field offices are slated for closure. The Department of Government Efficiency announced the closures as part of its cost-cutting measures. These closures will likely exacerbate the challenges for individuals needing in-person assistance.
Lee Dudek, SSA’s acting commissioner, noted the importance of these measures. He shared his experience witnessing the impact of fraud during his time in field offices. The agency’s goal is to prevent fraudulent redirection of benefits, a long-standing issue.
Addressing Fraud and Improper Payments
Between 2015 and 2022, fraudulent claims and improper payments cost the SSA $72 billion. While this represents less than 1% of all benefits disbursed, the agency is determined to address the issue. The stricter rules aim to reduce these losses and ensure benefits reach the intended recipients.
Advocates’ Perspective on the Changes
Advocates have raised concerns about the potential burden these changes may place on Social Security recipients. Kathleen Romig, director of Social Security and disability policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, highlighted key issues.
Romig explained that older adults, people with disabilities, and those without access to online tools will face the greatest difficulties. She also pointed out that families of children will need to visit offices in person, adding extra challenges.
Looking Ahead
The SSA’s new measures aim to prevent fraud and streamline operations. However, these changes also pose significant challenges for millions of Americans. Vulnerable populations, who already rely heavily on Social Security, may find it harder to access the benefits they need.
As the SSA implements these changes, advocates urge the agency to consider the impact on those most in need. It remains crucial to strike a balance between security and accessibility for all recipients. For the latest updates on government announcements, and breaking news, News Trendzs remains the world news site for reliable and up-to-date information.
