A new proposal from the Trump Administration could soon force thousands of Social Security recipients to show up in-person to receive their benefits.
The Social Security Administration proposed its new "identity check" rule in an effort to combat fraud, noting in an internal memo viewed by the Washington Post that those applying for Social Security for the first time over the phone will also need to verify their identities through a program called “internet ID proofing.” The AP reports that beginning March 31st, "people will no longer be able to verify their identity to the SSA over the phone and those who cannot properly verify their identity over the agency’s my Social Security online service, will be required to visit an agency field office in person."
The change will apply to new Social Security applicants and to existing recipients who want to change their direct deposit information.
The memo was sent last week by Acting Deputy Commissioner for Operations Doris Diaz to Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek. It also noted that if recipients can’t verify their identity through the online process, they will have to file paperwork at their nearest field office.
The potential rule change could force up to 85,000 people per week to seek out field offices to confirm their identities. The Post noted that almost every transaction at a field office requires a person to have an appointment, which can take months to acquire.
The memo also noted that it could lead to “increased challenges for vulnerable populations,” “longer wait times and processing time,” and “increased demand for office appointments,” the memo read, according to the Post.
The proposed rule change comes as field offices around the country are being closed down. According to a report from the New York Times, 40 of the 1,2000 field offices are expected to close as a part of President Trump’s efforts to shrink the government.
However, the list of offices that are believed to be closing is based on a list released by the Department of Government Efficiency, according to Social Security Works. DOGE has also said it will cut 7,000 of the SSA’s 57,000 employees.
The administration has previously considered scrapping its telephone service for claims, according to the Post. However, it turned heel after the proposed phone call change was reported by the outlet.
While several proposals have been made, the SSA said that claimants looking to change their bank account information will need to do so either online or in person, as the option will no longer be available over the phone.
Dudek shared on Tuesday in a memo obtained by NBC News that the agency was “exploring ways to implement AI—in a safe, governed manner in accordance with” guidelines from the Office of Management and Budget “to streamline and improve call resolution.”
He also noted in the memo that the agency’s recent media attention was a stress point for employees.
“Over the past month, this agency has seen an unprecedented level of media coverage, some of it true and deserved, while some has not been factual and painted the agency in a very negative light,” he wrote. “I know this has been stressful for you and has caused disruption in your life. Personally, I have made some mistakes, which makes me human like you. I promise you this, I will continue to make mistakes, but I will learn from them. My decisions will always be with the best intentions for this agency, the people we serve, and you.”