Major changes are coming to Social Security starting in April 2025. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is introducing reforms aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and customer service.
The SSA aims to reduce wait times on its national phone line by providing more accurate estimated wait times for callers. This change is expected to decrease frustration and increase transparency.
Internally, the agency is optimizing office space usage in partnership with the General Services Administration. Employees will be reallocated to high-demand areas, enhancing public service delivery.
The SSA has also updated identity verification policies for key programs. Starting April 14, applicants for Disability benefits, Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can verify their identity by phone if they cannot do it online. However, those applying for Retirement or Auxiliary benefits must still verify in person.
A grace period will be provided for training staff and handling exceptional cases as the new policy rolls out. These changes mark a significant step in modernizing the Social Security system to meet evolving American needs.
Source: https://www.tododisca.com/en/social-security-changes-in-april-us-government-confirms-how-it-will-affect-beneficiaries