The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced new anti-fraud measures that will go into effect on April 14. These changes aim to enhance the security of benefit claims and prevent fraudulent activities. Under the updated guidelines, most types of beneficiaries can still apply for benefits over the telephone.
This includes claims for retirement, survivor, spousal, children’s benefits, Social Security disability insurance, Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income. However, specific cases that are flagged for potential fraud risks will require in-person visits to SSA offices for identity verification. The agency estimates that about 70,000 out of the 4.5 million annual telephone claims may be flagged.
An SSA spokesperson confirmed that changes to direct deposit information will still need to be handled either online or in person. These new procedures are part of broader efforts to target waste, fraud, and abuse across federal agencies.
Updated identity verification measures
The SSA is introducing these stringent identity verification measures amid website outages and long wait times on its phone lines. Experts and advocates have expressed concerns that these changes may make it harder for vulnerable populations, such as seniors and people with disabilities, to access benefits. Bill Sweeney, senior vice president of government affairs at AARP, acknowledged the update as a positive move but suggested readjusting the policy and timeline for better outcomes.
“This seems like a good and encouraging signal that they’re listening and are open to reconsidering the implementation,” said Sweeney. Many beneficiaries already face obstacles reaching SSA phone lines for appointments. Kathleen Romig, director of Social Security and disability policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, noted that individuals typically need to call for an appointment, but the agency advises first attempting to seek help online.
Nancy LeaMond, chief advocacy and engagement officer at AARP, urged the SSA to halt changes to phone services, warning that it would exacerbate the ongoing customer service crisis. In a letter to SSA Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek, she emphasized the need for a more deliberate approach, including public input and a clear communication strategy. As the changes are set to take effect on Monday, April 14, the SSA has stated it will continue to monitor and make necessary adjustments to ensure the rightful allocation of benefits while safeguarding the programs it administers.
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