The Social Security Administration (SSA) is set to roll out enhanced anti-fraud measures for claims filed over the phone, marking a significant shift in how the agency processes benefit applications.
This update comes after widespread criticism of earlier policies that limited identity verification options, forcing many beneficiaries to visit SSA offices in person.
Why It Matters
The SSA administers monthly benefits to nearly 70 million Americans, including retirees, individuals with disabilities, and low-income households. However, the agency has faced backlash over its previous decision to restrict phone-based identity verification.
Critics argued that requiring in-person visits created unnecessary hurdles for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and individuals with disabilities who may lack reliable transportation or internet access.
Following public pressure, the SSA reversed its stance and announced that starting April 14, all claim types—including retirement, disability insurance, Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income—can be processed over the phone. This decision aims to improve accessibility while maintaining robust fraud prevention mechanisms.
What’s Changing
The SSA’s new anti-fraud system leverages advanced technology to analyze patterns and anomalies in telephone claims. If suspicious activity is detected, the claimant will need to verify their identity in person at an SSA office. However, individuals whose claims are not flagged can complete their applications entirely over the phone.
According to SSA Acting Commissioner Leland Dudek, “We are modernizing how we serve the public—enhancing both security and accessibility. These updates improve our ability to detect and prevent fraud while providing more flexible options for people to access their benefits.”
The agency estimates that out of approximately 4.5 million annual telephone claims, around 70,000 may be flagged for further review due to fraud risk indicators.
Background on Fraud Concerns
Fraud has been a persistent challenge for the SSA. Between January 2013 and May 2018, scammers exploited direct deposit information to divert $33.5 million in benefits from nearly 21,000 recipients. The new measures are part of a broader initiative by the Department of Government Efficiency under President Donald Trump’s administration to curb waste and abuse in federal spending.
These enhanced fraud checks aim to strike a balance between safeguarding taxpayer resources and ensuring equitable access to benefits.
Public Reaction
Advocacy groups have welcomed the reversal of restrictive policies but remain critical of other challenges within the SSA. The National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare stated: “While this change is positive, SSA must also address other harmful policies enacted under the guise of combating waste and fraud.”
Concerns persist about the adequacy of resources at SSA offices, which could face increased demand due to flagged claims requiring in-person verification. Additionally, advocates argue that rural residents and those with mobility issues may still encounter barriers despite the availability of phone services.