WASHINGTON – Recipients of Social Security benefits who use direct deposit may soon see their funds available more quickly. The federal government announced changes on Wednesday that will expedite all direct deposit change requests to just one business day, whether made in person or online. Previously, online direct deposit changes were held for 30 days.
The announcement coincides with new measures to enhance security through stronger identity verification procedures, aimed at protecting Social Security records and benefits from fraudulent activities.
“Americans deserve to have their Social Security records protected with the utmost integrity and vigilance,” said Lee Dudek, acting Social Security commissioner. “For far too long, the agency has used antiquated methods for proving identity. Social Security can better protect Americans while expediting service.”
The new practices will be implemented over the next two weeks for both benefit claims and direct deposit changes. Individuals will be able to use their personal \”my Social Security\” account, which requires online identity proofing. This can be created at www.ssa.gov/myaccount/.
The agency’s two-week transition plan includes employee and manager training and policy compliance monitoring. By the end of March, the agency will enforce online digital identity proofing and in-person identity proofing.
People without a verified online ID will need to visit a local Social Security office to prove their identities in person. Individuals will be allowed to start benefit claims via telephone, but these claims will not be completed until their identity is verified.
The agency recommends calling to request an in-person appointment to begin and complete the claim in one interaction. Customers can call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an in-person appointment.
— news from cleveland.com
