Social Security Administration Reverses Some Identity Verification Plans After Backlash

Trump administration had argued that the system was plagued by widespread fraud and inefficiency, asserting that the policy change was necessary to address these issues. (Credit: Baltimore City Employees and Elected Officials Retirements Systems/www.bcers.org)

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a revision to its plan that previously mandated all new and existing beneficiaries to visit a Social Security field office to verify their identity.

Under the revised policy, which will take effect on April 14 (instead of the original March 31 date), individuals applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will now be able to complete their applications over the phone, eliminating the need for an in-person visit.