The US government has reversed its plan to require Americans seeking services at the Social Security Administration (SSA) to visit in-person offices, citing new technological advancements that can detect and prevent fraud over the phone.
The policy change was met with relief from advocates for seniors and people with disabilities, who had expressed concerns about increased barriers to accessing benefits. The SSA initially announced the plan last month, which would have required claimants to visit local field offices if they couldn’t use the agency’s online verification system.
However, after widespread criticism and pressure from lawmakers and advocacy groups, the Trump administration has dropped the in-person requirement. The new policy will allow telephone services for those seeking benefits, with flagged individuals still needing to travel in person for verification.
The SSA claims its technological improvements can detect abnormal behavior in phone accounts and flag suspicious activity, allowing for more effective anti-fraud checks. Max Richtman, president of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, hailed the reversal as a “victory for Social Security beneficiaries” and attributed it to public pressure from advocacy groups.
The decision comes amid significant changes at the SSA, including widespread layoffs, regional office closures, and restructuring efforts. Advocates have expressed concerns about access to services during this period, but the policy shift is seen as a positive development in addressing issues related to access and equity for seniors.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/04/10/g-s1-59463/trump-social-security-ssa-in-person-offices