Social Security Administration to Require In-Person Identity Checks

In an effort to combat fraudulent claims, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will implement stricter identity-proofing measures, requiring millions of recipients and applicants to visit SSA field offices instead of verifying their identity over the phone, the Associated Press (AP) reported.

The SSA currently serves more than 72.5 million people, including retirees and children receiving retirement and disability benefits.

Beginning March 31, 2025, individuals will no longer be able to verify their identity with the SSA over the phone. Those unable to complete verification through the agency’s "my Social Security" online service will need to visit an SSA field office in person, agency officials told reporters.

Retiree advocates warn that the change could negatively impact older Americans, particularly people in rural areas, individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations, and those without reliable internet access

The SSA currently serves more than 72.5 million people, including retirees and children receiving retirement and disability benefits.

The policy shift comes amid planned office closures and staff layoffs. The DOGE website indicates that leases for 47 SSA field offices in states including Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Kentucky, and North Carolina have already been or will soon be terminated.