New In-Person Requirement at Social Security Offices for 2025: How It Affects You

If you rely on Social Security benefits, new identity verification changes could affect you. As part of an effort to better protect individuals from fraud, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has strengthened its identity verification process.

This means new steps to complete routine actions like applying for benefits or updating direct deposit details.

What’s Changing and Why

The Social Security Administration now requires that if you’re applying for retirement, survivor, or family benefits (spouse and child) and can’t use the online portal, you must verify your identity in-person at a Social Security office. This applies to both new applications and updates to existing accounts. Although individuals can begin the process of applying for benefits online, they must still verify their identity in-person to complete the process.

However, if you’re applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you won’t be required to go in person because your identity can be verified during the claims process.

Another change affects direct deposit, which will now be processed within one business day, whether submitted online or in person. That’s a major improvement from the old 30-day delay on online requests.

According to the SSA’s acting commissioner, Lee Dudek, the agency is stepping up security because older methods of identity verification are no longer sufficient. These new steps are meant to better protect people’s personal information and benefits.

Navigating the New System

Now that the new rules are active, here’s how to manage Social Security interactions under the updated policy:

• Use your “my Social Security” account for the fastest access. If you haven’t set one up, go to ssa.gov/my account.
• If you can’t use the online portal, be prepared to verify your identity in person. Call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment to avoid long waits. And be sure to gather all required documents before heading to the SSA office so you can complete your task in one visit.
• Contact the SSA, specifically your local SSA office, if you’re unsure what’s needed or how to access services. You can use the Social Security Office Locator to ensure you contact the correct location.

The Bottom Line

These changes went into effect on March 31, 2025, and while they’re meant to improve security and reduce identity theft and fraud, they may be inconvenient for some individuals. However, there are steps you can take to ensure the process of verifying your identity goes as smoothly as possible.