Millions of Social Security recipients will no longer be able to verify their identity over the phone starting March 31. This change aims to reduce fraudulent claims and improper payments, which cost $72 billion between 2015 and 2022. However, advocates are concerned about the burden this may place on older Americans and those with disabilities.
Under the new policy, recipients will need to either verify their identity online or in person at a Social Security office. This change affects people who struggle with online verification systems, including those without smartphones or driver’s licenses, as well as children whose families cannot open a My Social Security account.
Kathleen Romig, director of Social Security and disability policy for the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, warns that this will disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. “It’s going to impact anyone who struggles with the online verification system,” she says. “That could include people who are just not comfortable using online services, which often does include older people and people with disabilities.”
The Trump administration is also closing over 40 field offices and letting go of thousands of employees, citing that they were underutilized since online virtual meetings became more popular. However, Romig argues that this will have a negative impact on the affected communities.
Romig advocates for prioritizing staff cuts to improve customer service at Social Security Administration. “There are already not enough staff members working at SSA due to years of underfunding,” she says. “The Trump administration is actually moving to double down on those staff cuts, which will lead to longer delays in processing claims and accessing benefits.”
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/trump-administrations-social-security-changes-could-limit-access-to-benefits-for-millions