The Social Security Administration (SSA) has updated its identity verification measures, delaying the start date of the new requirements and adding exceptions. The agency plans to extend the policy’s effective date by two weeks to ensure employees have the training needed to assist customers.
The changes will now take effect on April 14 instead of March 31. One key exception is that applicants for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can complete their claims over the phone without in-person identity proofing if they cannot verify their identity online.
For other applications, such as Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary benefits, claimants will need to prove their identity. However, the SSA will not enforce these requirements in extreme dire-need situations, such as terminal cases or prisoner pre-release scenarios.
To prove identity, claimants can use their my Social Security account portal or provide a valid document, including a U.S. driver’s license, passport, or military identification card. The agency also offers a phone number and online tool to help those find their local office.
Additionally, the SSA plans to expedite processing of direct deposit change requests to one business day, resume debt collection through its Treasury Offset Program, and close dozens of Social Security offices nationwide.
Source: https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/social-security-announces-updates-to-upcoming-id-requirement-changes/3707407