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The Social Security istration (SSA) is implementing tougher identity verification processes aimed at enhancing the protection of Social Security records and benefits against fraud.
According to the SSA, the upgraded measures will be rolled out over the next two weeks to ensure that all benefit claims and direct deposit changes are processed securely.
For those unable to use their personal my Social Security for online identity proofing, in-person verification at local SSA offices will now be required.
Additionally, the SSA plans to expedite processing for all direct deposit change requests - whether in person or online - to be completed within one business day. Previously, online changes were held for 30 days before being processed.
"Americans deserve to have their Social Security records protected with the utmost integrity and vigilance," said Lee Dudek, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. "For far too long, the agency has used antiquated methods for proving identity. Social Security can better protect Americans while expediting service."
Concerns Over Accessibility and Potential Service Delays
The SSA's transition plan includes training frontline employees and management on the new policy, along with closely monitoring compliance. However, there has been significant pushback from advocacy groups, lawmakers, and Social Security recipients who fear that the new requirements could cause unintended hardships for vulnerable populations.
Critics are particularly worried about how this change will impact older beneficiaries in rural or underserved areas, especially those who have limited internet access or are unable to visit SSA offices in person. Additionally, concerns are growing over the planned closures of 47 SSA field offices across the country, including 26 slated for closure this year.
"Eliminating phone verification will result in more headaches and longer wait times to resolve routine customer service needs," said Nancy LeaMond of the AARP. She emphasized that this sudden policy change was being implemented on an impractical fast-track, potentially harming seniors who rely on these services.
Adding to the anxiety, Harrison Fields, a White House spokesperson, acknowledged the goal of the changes: "We're looking out for seniors by doing this," he said, explaining that the shift was intended to combat vulnerabilities to fraud that cost the agency $100 million in direct deposit fraud annually.
The Battle Over Accessibility And Efficiency
Despite assurances from the SSA, critics argue that the requirement for in-person verification could overwhelm field offices, ultimately causing delays and frustration.
Nancy Altman, President of Social Security Works, warned, "This will make it far harder for the American people to claim their earned benefits. It could even cause major delays, and ultimately collapse the system, by overwhelming the field offices."
Governors and lawmakers from several states have also expressed concern over how the new policy could affect low-income seniors and those with mobility issues. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted the difficulties faced by seniors living on fixed incomes who may have to travel long distances just to prove their identity.
Meanwhile, the SSA intends to implement the Department of Treasury's Bureau of the Fiscal Service's Verification Service (AVS), which provides instant bank verification services to further safeguard direct deposit changes.
The SSA says it will monitor the situation and make adjustments if needed, but many worry that the changes are coming too fast and may place unnecessary burdens on the very people the agency is meant to serve.