By Ben A. Neiburger, Attorney, Generation Law

Social Security is implementing new identity verification measures, and you may be curious about their impact on you. These updates aim to combat fraud, abuse, and waste. However, you may have challenges making any changes to your benefits if you cannot do so online. So, if you think you may have trouble doing that, now is the time to try it (when there is no emergency). Today, I will outline the new procedures and the reasons behind their introduction. For instance, phone applications may soon be phased out, with online applications becoming the sole method of submission.

The reason this is important now, is that in the future, you or a loved one may only have access to Social Security through online means. If you cannot get into an online Social Security Account, the wait to see someone in person could be a very long time. So, we strongly recommend that EVERYONE try to log into their Social Security Account online. If there is a problem and there is a long wait to get access, it’s much better to do that when there is no emergency than when there is one.

If a person cannot get access to their online account, they must schedule an in person meeting with Social Security. Because of shrinking staffing, an in person meeting may take a long time.

Although the current verification system is effective, Social Security is implementing new security measures. One proposed change is to eliminate phone applications and require online applications (although Social Security’s website on April 22, 2025 said they are still taking telephone applications). To apply, you will need to create a My Social Security account at ssa.gov and complete the identity verification process.

The new verification process will require online applications and facial recognition.

Typically, the verification process is done on a smartphone and involves scanning your ID, taking a live photo, and using facial recognition technology to confirm your identity. While some individuals may find this straightforward, others, especially older adults, may face difficulties. Additionally, the planned closure of field offices could make it even more challenging for those who need in-person assistance.

Here is what the Social Security Administration is saying about who needs to prove their identity using the new procedures:

“If you are not applying for benefits or changing direct deposit information for current benefits, there is no need to contact Social Security to prove identity.

People will continue to receive their benefits on schedule to the bank account information in Social Security’s records without needing to prove identity.

If changing direct deposit information for existing benefits, the most convenient and secure way to prove identity is with Social Security’s online services using a personal my Social Security account.

Currently, a person can change where their direct deposit goes as follows:

“Beginning April 28, 2025, you can change your direct deposit by calling 1-800-772-1213. Before you call, go to ssa.gov/PIN to get a one-time code that you will give to the Social Security representative. To generate the code, you will need to sign in to or create a personal my Social Security account. If you are unable to create an account, you will need to come into a local Social Security office or arrange for direct deposit through your bank.”

If you want to receive a paper check, a person must visit a Social Security office before changing mailing address.

You will need to visit a Social Security office in person:

  • “If you need to change direct deposit information and cannot do it online or by phone.
  • If you apply for benefits by telephone and your claim is flagged as a potential fraud risk.
  • If you use a paper application to apply for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary (Spouse or Child) benefits”

Some other tidbits:

You do not need to contact Social Security to continue your monthly benefits at your current bank. If you need to change your direct deposit information in the future, you can change that information online with a personal my Social Security account or automatic enrollment service through your bank.

You can still apply for benefits by telephone (but the wait times are long)

For more answers regarding these procedures, go to this link at Social Security: What to Know about Proving Your Identity | SSA