Starting March 31, 2025, the Social Security Administration began enforcing new identity verification requirements that affect how people access their accounts and conduct certain business online and by phone. If you receive SSI or SSDI, these changes could impact how you manage your benefits — so it's important to understand what's new and what you need to do.
In this article, we'll cover:
- What changed with SSA's identity verification rules
- Who is affected and what transactions require verification
- How the new in-person identity proofing works
- What this means for people who rely on online access
- Tips for navigating the new requirements smoothly
What Changed?
The Social Security Administration updated its identity verification process to combat fraud and protect beneficiaries' accounts. The most significant change is a shift toward requiring in-person identity proofing at local Social Security offices for certain online account actions — particularly creating a new my Social Security account or making changes to direct deposit information.
Previously, much of this could be handled entirely online through SSA's website using knowledge-based verification questions and Login.gov or ID.me credentials. Under the new rules, some actions now require you to verify your identity in person before you can complete them online.
This came after concerns about unauthorized access to beneficiary accounts and fraudulent changes to direct deposit information — a growing problem that was diverting benefit payments to scammers.
Who Is Affected?
The new rules primarily affect people who need to create a new my Social Security account online, make changes to their direct deposit or payment information, or conduct certain other sensitive transactions through SSA's online portal.
If you already have an established my Social Security account and aren't making changes to your payment information, you may not notice any immediate difference. But if you need to set up a new account, recover access to an existing account, or redirect where your benefits are deposited, you'll likely need to visit a Social Security office in person.
Representative payees are also affected. If you manage benefits for someone else and need to make changes to how those benefits are received, the new identity verification requirements apply to you as well.
How In-Person Identity Proofing Works
If you're required to verify your identity in person, you'll need to visit your local Social Security office. Bring government-issued photo identification (such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport) along with any other documentation SSA requests, which may include your Social Security card, birth certificate, or proof of current address.
SSA staff will verify your identity face-to-face and update your records accordingly. Once your identity is confirmed in person, you may be able to complete certain actions online going forward — but the initial verification must happen at the office.
Wait times at Social Security offices can be significant, so plan accordingly. You can check your local office's hours and, in some cases, schedule an appointment by calling SSA's main number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
What This Means for Online Access
For many SSI and SSDI recipients — especially those with mobility challenges, transportation barriers, or who live in rural areas far from a Social Security office — the shift toward in-person verification creates a real burden. Online access was a lifeline for people who couldn't easily get to an office, and requiring physical visits for account setup and changes adds a layer of difficulty.
Advocacy organizations have raised concerns about these barriers, particularly for people with disabilities who may face the most significant challenges getting to an office in person. SSA has indicated that accommodations may be available, but the details vary by office and situation.
If you have difficulty getting to a Social Security office, consider calling ahead to explain your circumstances. SSA may be able to arrange a phone appointment, a home visit in some cases, or other accommodations depending on your situation.
Tips for Navigating the New Rules
Don't wait until you need to make a change. If you don't already have a my Social Security account set up, consider doing it now — before you're in a situation where you urgently need online access. Having an established account in place gives you more flexibility.
Keep your direct deposit information current. Since changing payment information is one of the actions most affected by the new rules, make sure your current banking details are correct. If you need to update where your benefits are deposited, plan for the possibility that you'll need to visit an office in person.
Bring the right documents. When visiting a Social Security office, bring your government-issued photo ID, Social Security card (if you have it), and any correspondence from SSA about the change you need to make. Having everything ready reduces the chance of needing a second visit.
Be aware of scams. The new identity verification rules have created opportunities for scammers to impersonate SSA and claim that you need to "verify your identity" by providing personal information over the phone, by email, or through a website. Remember that SSA will never ask for your full Social Security number, bank account details, or payment by phone or email. If you receive a suspicious contact, hang up and call SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213.
Ask about accommodations. If disability, transportation, or other barriers make it difficult to visit an office, be upfront with SSA about your needs. The agency has an obligation to provide reasonable accommodations, though you may need to advocate for yourself.
The Bottom Line
SSA's new identity verification rules are designed to protect beneficiaries from fraud, but they also create new hurdles — especially for people with disabilities who relied on online access. Understanding the changes now and taking proactive steps to set up your account and keep your information current will save you stress down the road.
Purple's checking account is designed for SSI and SSDI recipients, making it easy to manage your benefits and keep your banking details in order — so when SSA needs your direct deposit information, you're ready.