Recipients without online accounts will have to do in-person verification to file claims or to change direct deposit information after March 31.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is boosting identity verification measures for two of its services in a bid to combat fraud and protect beneficiary records.
By March 31, the SSA “will enforce online digital identity proofing and in-person identity proofing” for filing benefit claims and requesting changes to direct deposit banking information, the agency said in a March 18 statement.
Individuals with an online My Social Security account can access those two services via their online account.
People without online accounts will be able to initiate their claim for benefits via phone. However, their identity has to be verified in person, which requires them to visit the local Social Security office with documentation.
People without a My Social Security account seeking to change direct deposit information also will have to visit a local office to update details.
Furthermore, all requests for updating direct deposit information are to be processed within one business day, regardless of whether these requests were made online or in person.
Updated measures are intended to “further safeguard Social Security records and benefits against fraudulent activity,” the agency said.
The SSA recently required all employees to work from the office five days a week to ensure that enough employees are present to carry out in-person identity confirmation.
SSA intends to implement the Account Verification Service (AVS) from the U.S. Treasury’s Bureau of Fiscal Service. AVS allows for instant bank verification and helps to prevent fraud associated with requests to update direct deposit details.
“Americans deserve to have their Social Security records protected with the utmost integrity and vigilance,” said Lee Dudek, acting commissioner of the SSA.
“For far too long, the agency has used antiquated methods for proving identity. Social Security can better protect Americans while expediting service.”
AARP, an advocacy group for seniors, criticized the SSA’s new efforts.
Nancy LeaMond. AARP executive vice president, said that asking people to visit SSA office in-person for services “will result in more headaches and longer wait times to resolve routine customer service needs,” according to a March 19 statement.
