SOCIAL Security claims made by phone will undergo a new process change.
The change comes weeks after the Social Security Administration (SSA) was hit with backlash.
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All Social Security claims made by phone will now be subject to anti-fraud checks, the agency announced April 14.
The move follows criticism of a proposal to cut phone services, which could have forced some people to visit local SSA offices in person.
Now, individuals can file any type of claim over the phone, with new anti-fraud tools in place to protect users and improve service.
The technology detects suspicious patterns in phone claims, and if flagged, the person must verify their identity in person to proceed.
The SSA says these updates are part of a broader effort to modernize services and reduce identity fraud.
As tax season ends and benefits season ramps up, experts say it’s a good time to double-check that your information is up to date.
“We are modernizing how we serve the public—enhancing both security and accessibility,” said Social Security commissioner Lee Dudek.
“These updates improve our ability to detect and prevent fraud while providing more flexible options for people to access their benefits.”
IMPORTANT UPDATES
The SSA began conducting anti-fraud checks on claims over the phone on April 14.
The agency said it would flag any claims with potential fraud risk indicators.
“Users of our phone service will only have to come in-person if they are flagged by our anti-fraud system,” the SSA wrote on X.
“We are surging personnel to the phone lines to better assist anyone that needs help.”
“We will continue to conduct 100 percent ID proofing for all in-person claims,” the agency posted on X.
“4.5 million telephone claims a year and 70K may be flagged.”
WHO APPLIES?
You’ll need to visit a local Social Security office to verify your identity if you’re applying for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary benefits.
This also applies if you’re changing your direct deposit information or receiving paper checks and need to update your mailing address.
PROTECT YOUR BENEFITS
Social Security recipients can receive as much as $5,108 a month.
However, not everyone is entitled to that amount.
$5,108 is the maximum benefit for individuals retiring at age 70.
Some recipients may notice a substantial boost in their monthly checks, with increases of up to $1,000 over what they previously received.
OTHER CHANGES
Applicants and beneficiaries can make changes or requests online.
These include applying for benefits, replacing a Social Security card, updating contact or direct deposit information, name changes, or checking application status.
“Some tasks start online and need to be finished in an office but starting online saves time,” the agency said.
“We’ll help you schedule an appointment to visit when it’s needed. If you don’t start online, call to make an appointment before visiting.”