Updated 3/27: SSA Changes Identity Verification Process
On March 18, 2025, Social Security announced that people who are unable to confirm their identity online through their MySSA account will be required to make an appointment and provide proof of identity. Social Security will no longer allow a person to verify their identity over the phone as had been previously allowed. Although this change may create hardship for many older adults, people with disabilities, and others who do not live within close proximity to their local SSA office, this change will be in effect as of March 31, 2025.
Proof of identity will be required for the following:
- Benefit Claims: Starting a claim for Social Security benefits.*
- Direct Deposit Changes: Updating direct deposit information for receiving benefits.
*3/27/2025 Update: Social Security released a brief on 3/26/2025 updating their policy to note that:
“Under the updated policy beginning April 14, 2025, individuals applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) who cannot use a personal my Social Security account can complete their claim entirely over the telephone without the need to come into an office.
Individuals who cannot use their personal my Social Security account to apply for benefits will only need to prove their identity at a Social Security office if applying for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary (Spouse or Child) benefits.“
Please know that Social Security strongly encourages people to schedule an appointment before visiting their local office to minimize wait times and guarantee the ability to speak with a representative.
To schedule an appointment and confirm what documentation will be needed to verify your identify, call Social Security’s national number 1-800-772-1213. Additional details about Social Security’s policy for walk-in appointments can be found at this link under item #5.
For more information on how to create a MySSA account, please visit this page of the BenefitU website.
For additional information from Social Security regarding What to Know About Proving Your Identity, click here.
