On March 31, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will implement significant changes aimed at enhancing the security of benefit services and protecting Americans from fraud. These updates will affect how people apply for benefits and change their direct deposit information—so if you or someone you know interacts with Social Security, it’s important to understand what’s shifting and why.

 

What’s Changing—and Why It’s Happening

 

At the core of these changes is the SSA’s move toward stronger, more secure identity verification. For too long, outdated systems made it easier for identity thieves to slip through the cracks. Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek put it plainly: Americans deserve better safeguards when it comes to their personal and financial data.

 

Here’s what’s being put in place:

 

1. Stricter Identity Verification for All Transactions

 

Starting March 31, any individual applying for benefits or updating their banking information will need to pass a much more rigorous identity check:

• If you use the SSA’s my Social Security portal, you’ll go through online digital identity proofing.
• If you can’t or don’t use the online portal, you’ll be required to verify your identity in person at a local SSA office before any service can begin.

 

This shift is designed to prevent fraudulent activity and ensure benefits are only accessible to the right person. It also creates a consistent standard across all services.

 

2. In-Person Visits Will Be Mandatory for Some

 

You can still call the SSA to start a benefits claim, but it won’t be completed until your identity is verified in person. To streamline the process, the agency recommends calling ahead for an appointment, so both the identity check and claim submission can happen during the same visit.

 

To support this increased in-person demand, SSA employees—nationwide—are now required to work in the office five days a week. Offices will be fully staffed and trained to assist with this transition.

 

3. Direct Deposit Changes Will Be Processed Within One Business Day

 

Previously, online direct deposit updates took up to 30 days to process—an intentional delay meant to deter fraud. That waiting period will be eliminated. Beginning March 31, any change—whether made online or in person—will be processed in just one business day.

 

To help ensure these faster changes don’t open new doors for fraud, the SSA is implementing a new system from the U.S. Department of Treasury called the Account Verification Service (AVS). It allows the agency to instantly verify banking information and stop suspicious updates before they’re approved. In short: SSA is modernizing its systems to better protect the integrity of your benefits while keeping service times short and secure.

 

What You Should Do to Prepare

 

If you receive Social Security benefits, plan to apply soon, or need to update your bank account details, here’s how to stay ahead of the curve:

 

1. Set Up or Confirm Your “my Social Security” Account

Visit ssa.gov/myaccount to create an account or verify your login credentials. This will allow you to complete transactions online and avoid in-person visits—provided you can complete the required identity proofing.

 

2. Call for an Appointment If You Can’t Go Online

If you’re not using the online platform, call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an in-person appointment. Walk-ins are still allowed, but an appointment helps minimize delays and ensures you can complete your transaction in a single visit.

 

3. Be Extra Careful When Updating Bank Info

With changes processing faster than ever, it’s important to double-check your account and routing numbers before submitting any updates.

 

4. Check In With Family and Friends

These changes will impact anyone interacting with SSA—especially older adults and those unfamiliar with online systems. A quick conversation could help someone avoid frustration or a delay in benefits.

 

The SSA is taking meaningful steps to strengthen the security of its services. While the changes may require more preparation or an extra appointment, they’re designed to keep your personal and financial information safe—and to ensure benefits reach the people who’ve earned them.