Social Security is updating how it verifies identity in 2025. These changes protect against fraud and make sure benefits go to the right person. This guide explains who needs to verify their identity, when, and how.
Why is identity verification changing?
Criminals use stolen personal information to change direct deposit details and steal benefits. Many of these scams use data from the dark web. Older security methods like knowledge-based questions are no longer enough.
The new system uses stronger online verification through your personal my Social Security account. If you can’t use the online option, in-person proofing may be required for certain services.
Do you need to prove your identity?
You only need to prove your identity if you are applying for benefits or changing your direct deposit information. If you are not making changes or applying for anything, you don’t need to do anything. Your benefits will continue as usual.
The easiest way to prove identity
The safest and fastest way is to create and use a personal my Social Security account. You can do this at ssa.gov/myaccount. With this account, you can apply for benefits and update bank details without visiting an office.
Who needs to visit a Social Security office?
You must visit an office if you:
- Apply for Retirement, Survivors, or Spouse/Child benefits without a verified online account
- Use a paper application
- Need to change your direct deposit and can’t do it online
- Receive paper checks and want to update your mailing address
You can call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment.
Who doesn’t need to visit?
You don’t need to visit an office if you:
- Use your personal my Social Security account for your transaction
- Apply by phone for Medicare, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Don’t receive benefits or are not making changes
What about applying by phone?
You can apply by phone for most programs. But if you apply for Retirement, Survivors, or Spouse/Child benefits, you still need to go to an office to prove your identity in person. SSA recommends making an appointment so you can apply and verify your identity in one visit.
Is proof needed to keep getting benefits?
No. If you’re already receiving benefits and not making any changes, you don’t need to contact Social Security. Your monthly payments will continue as usual.
What if you’re helping someone else?
If someone is helping you apply using your personal online account, no office visit is needed. But if they submit the application another way, like by phone or paper, you’ll need to go to an office to verify your identity.
What about children?
Children under 18 do not need to be present. Parents or guardians must show documents that prove identity and their relationship to the child. A full list of accepted documents is available on the SSA website.
Are there exceptions?
If you create and verify your online account once, you won’t need to prove identity again for future online services. Organizations working with SSA under a formal agreement can also continue using existing methods.
Can SSA text you for identity proof?
No. Social Security will never send you a text asking to confirm identity or personal details. If you get a message like this, ignore it.
Need to find your nearest SSA office?
Use the Social Security Office Locator at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 for help.
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