New in-person requirements threaten social security access for millions

In the United States, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced significant changes to its identity verification process, which will take effect on March 31, 2025. As part of an effort to combat fraud, individuals who cannot use the agency's online identity-proving tool, 'my Social Security', will be required to visit a local Social Security office in person. This decision has sparked outrage among lawmakers, advocacy groups, and beneficiaries, who fear it introduces unnecessary barriers to access essential services, particularly for vulnerable populations, including retirees and those without reliable internet access. The SSA's new policies are designed to strengthen the protection of Social Security records and benefits, especially in light of previous incidences of fraud. For instance, from January 2013 to May 2018, fraudsters were able to redirect millions in benefits from nearly 21,000 individuals through unauthorized changes made online. The current transition to in-person verification aims to safeguard against similar fraudulent activities in the future, according to SSA officials. However, the timing of these changes is concerning for many, as the agency is also facing layoffs and the closure of numerous field offices, further complicating access to services for those in need. As the SSA moves forward with this policy, it will impact anyone needing to verify bank information with the agency. The requirement places greater pressure on older Americans who may live in remote areas without easy access to a Social Security office. Advocates have expressed serious concerns about the potential for long wait times and delays in service, exacerbating the difficulties faced by seniors seeking assistance with Social Security. Families with children receiving benefits are also worried, as the inability to verify a child's information online will necessitate in-person visits that may be challenging for many. Elderly individuals, such as 80-year-old Sandi Bachom, have voiced their fears over the impending changes. The decision to eliminate online and phone verification options has raised alarms as many seniors depend on their Social Security benefits for basic living expenses. Critics of the policy argue that the SSA must maintain adequate resources to serve its swath of beneficiaries effectively and that promising faster service, such as expediting direct deposit requests, does little to address the real accessibility issues brought on by these new requirements. The combination of in-person verification mandates, office closures, and layoffs could lead to significant challenges for current and prospective beneficiaries of the Social Security system.