The Social Security Administration (SSA) headquarters in Washington, DC, on March 26, 2025. Credit – Saul Loeb—AFFollowing the return of President Donald Trump to the Oval Office, there has been a significant focus on Social Security, a crucial program providing retirement and disability benefits to over 70 million individuals. Despite Trump’s initial promise not to alter Social Security, reports have emerged indicating potential staff and office reductions led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).On March 18, the SSA unveiled a new policy aimed at implementing stricter identity verification procedures, transitioning away from phone-based verification to online and in-person methods. Originally set to launch on March 31, the policy faced confusion and opposition, prompting the SSA to revise certain measures and extend the implementation timeline to allow for adequate preparation.Here is an overview of the upcoming Social Security identification policy changes.What do the new Social Security ID policies entail?The updated SSA ID policy necessitates enhanced identity proofing for benefit claims and direct deposit modifications, no longer permitting phone-based verification for most Social Security beneficiaries. Recipients will be required to verify their identity through an online account, while those without accounts must conduct in-person verification at an SSA field office. Individuals can schedule an in-person appointment by calling 1-800-772-1213.According to the SSA, these measures are designed to fortify the security of Social Security records and benefits, safeguarding millions of Americans against fraudulent activities.Tesla CEO Elon Musk, in collaboration with DOGE, has criticized Social Security as a “major Ponzi scheme,” citing alleged fraud and inefficiency. Contrary to the Trump Administration’s claims, some experts argue that instances of fraud within the Social Security system are not as widespread.On March 29, Senator Tina Smith, a Democratic member from Minnesota on the Senate Finance Committee, expressed reservations about the Trump Administration and DOGE’s motives concerning Social Security. Smith highlighted the disruption and anxiety caused by these changes among her constituents and across the nation, questioning whether her Republican colleagues would take action to address these concerns.During the hearing for nominee Frank Bisignano on March 25, Smith condemned the perceived efforts to dismantle Social Security, labeling it a targeted attack rather than an initiative to combat waste and fraud. She criticized Bisignano’s responses during the hearing and doubted his commitment to safeguarding Social Security.Read More: Updates on Social Security Developments
New Social Security ID Policy Under the Trump Administration: Who Will Be Affected and Should You Be Concerned?
The new policy issued by the Trump Administration has raised questions about who will be impacted and who will be exempt. Initially met with criticism from lawmakers and advocates, the policy required individuals to make in-person visits to Social Security Administration (SSA) field offices, posing challenges for those in rural areas, individuals with disabilities, and seniors.
AARP, formerly known as the American Association for Retired Persons, urged the SSA to reconsider these requirements, highlighting the difficulties faced by rural Americans who may have to take time off work and travel long distances just to fill out paperwork.
During a hearing, questions were raised about the potential alienation of citizens under the new policy. Sen. Elizabeth Warren presented a scenario to SSA officials, expressing concerns about vulnerable individuals being turned away due to difficulties in visiting field offices. In response, officials stated that there was no intention to cut benefits under the new policy.
In a recent update, the SSA announced exemptions for certain groups, such as those applying for Social Security Disability Insurance, Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), allowing them to complete their claims through alternative methods. The agency emphasized the importance of accommodating vulnerable populations and providing better customer service.
While beneficiaries applying for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary benefits may still be required to visit SSA offices in person, exceptions will be made for extreme cases, such as terminal illnesses or prisoner pre-release situations. The SSA is working on a process to address these exceptions and ensure individuals receive the support they need.
The new identity proofing requirements were initially set to apply to all beneficiaries starting April 14 but were postponed to allow for additional employee training. Despite concerns about potential staff cuts impacting benefit delivery, the SSA clarified that no field offices have been permanently closed since 2025, attributing temporary closures to factors like weather or facility issues.
Experts warn of challenges beneficiaries may face in accessing benefits, citing long wait times and difficulties reaching representatives by phone. As the SSA navigates these changes, there is a continued focus on supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring access to essential services.
“Many who were already feeling overwhelmed are now completely swamped,” she explained. “There is a significant gap between the promise not to cut benefits and the reality of the situation within the agency.”
How to Prepare for the New ID Policy:
If you are not applying for Medicare, Disability, or SSI, it is important to get ready for the new ID policy by setting up a “my Social Security” account on the SSA website if you don’t have one already. This will eliminate the need for in-person identification verification and is considered the most convenient and secure method by the SSA.
To create your account, you can choose between two credential service providers: Login.gov or ID.me. Make sure you have a valid email address. For those who must visit a field office in person because they cannot use the online account, the SSA accepts various primary and secondary proofs of identity, such as a driver’s license, passport, alien or voter registration card, or union card.
Social Security provides a list of accepted identification documents on their website. For more information, please contact us at letters@time.com.
