Starting Monday, April 14, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will implement a new anti-fraud measure for claims filed over the phone. According to an update shared by the SSA on X (formerly Twitter), the agency will begin conducting fraud risk checks on all telephone claims.
Claims that are flagged as potentially fraudulent will require in-person identity verification before they can be processed further. Claims that are not flagged will continue through the normal process without the need for in-person verification.
This change follows the SSA’s recent decision to end over-the-phone identity verification, a move aimed at curbing fraudulent benefit claims.
A press release dated March 26 explained that, with some exceptions—including those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—individuals who are unable to verify their identity through the SSA’s online portal will now need to visit a local SSA field office to complete the process.
Each year, the SSA handles around 4.5 million telephone claims. Of these, approximately 70,000 may be flagged under the new system. The shift comes amid growing concerns about identity theft and benefit fraud.
According to a 2023 report from the SSA’s Office of the Inspector General, fraudsters diverted $33.5 million in benefits from nearly 21,000 recipients between 2013 and 2018 by manipulating direct deposit information.
A spokesperson for the SSA emphasized that the agency is committed to paying the right person the right amount on time, while also protecting the programs it administers.
Max Richtman, president and CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, criticized the move, stating that it risks creating barriers for the very people who rely on these benefits, such as seniors, people with disabilities, and their families.
Newsweek has reached out to the SSA for additional comment.