The Social Security Administration (SSA) is rolling out enhanced anti-fraud measures designed to safeguard telephone-based benefit claims starting April 14, 2025. The move comes as part of a broader modernization push aimed at protecting beneficiaries, expanding access, and restoring trust in the agency’s claim process.
What’s Changing in Social Security Phone Claims
SSA’s new tools will analyze behavioral and account data to detect anomalies or suspicious patterns in claims submitted over the phone. If potential fraud is flagged, the claimant will be required to complete in-person identity verification before their application can proceed.
These safeguards apply to all claim types processed over the phone and are part of SSA’s larger effort to strengthen integrity while making benefits more accessible to people who can’t file online or visit a local office.
“We are modernizing how we serve the public—enhancing both security and accessibility,” said Leland Dudek, Acting Commissioner of Social Security.
$16.5 Million Modernization of Telephone Services
To prepare for the anticipated surge in call volume, SSA has invested $16.5 million to overhaul its national phone system. The updates allow the agency to scale up its fraud detection capacity while continuing to support legitimate claims quickly and securely.
These changes coincide with the full return of SSA staff to in-office operations, giving the agency the bandwidth to roll out more secure, accessible services nationwide.
The Bigger Picture: Waste, Fraud, and Social Security Integrity
The SSA’s action comes amid growing scrutiny of fraud and improper payments across federal entitlement programs. Consider the following:
- The Government Accountability Office estimates that fraud costs U.S. taxpayers as much as $521 billion annually, much of it tied to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
- From 2015 to 2022, the SSA alone paid out $72 billion in improper payments.
- In 2024, Medicare and Medicaid programs made over $140 billion in erroneous payments.
As concerns mount over the sustainability of entitlement programs, leaders have called for stronger oversight. The White House recently reiterated President Trump’s pledge to protect Social Security and Medicare benefits, while targeting fraud, waste, and abuse.
Phone Claim Fraud Prevention: What You Need to Know
- Effective Date: April 14, 2025
- What It Covers: All claim types filed over the phone
- What Triggers a Red Flag: Anomalous account activity or behavioral indicators
- Next Steps If Flagged: In-person identity proofing will be required
- Why It Matters: Prevents fraudulent claims while improving access for legitimate beneficiaries
The Bottom Line
Social Security fraud is a growing concern, with billions lost to improper payments every year. The SSA’s updated telephone claims policy reflects a strategic shift toward modern fraud prevention while expanding service accessibility.
With taxpayer dollars at stake and tens of millions relying on these critical benefits, the new safeguards are a welcome step toward restoring accountability and protecting those who need support the most.
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