SSA To Allow Phone Service For SSDI Claims
To apply for government benefits, applicants often have to apply online or in person. However, for those who are disabled and looking to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, having to drive to an office to apply is out of the question. And many people still do not have internet access or have trouble doing things online.
Telephone services would be helpful for most people. At first, the Social Security Administration (SSA) would not allow it, citing budget cuts and a preference for online services. However, Frank Bisignano, President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the SSA, stated that phone service was “a part of meeting beneficiaries where they want to get met.” This means the SSA has committed to phone service for certain beneficiaries.
The SSA announced that beginning April 14, 2025, those applying for SSDI, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Medicare who cannot use an online account can complete their claim entirely over the telephone. They will not be required to come into an office.
The SSA had previously announced that beginning in April, beneficiaries would be allowed to start their benefits claim on the telephone. However, the claim could not be completed until the person’s identity was verified in person.
That has changed. The SSA has decided to take “proactive steps to enhance the security of its services by implementing stronger identity verification procedures.”
Following the decision, Lee Dudek, Acting Commissioner of Social Security, posted a message on the SSA website that the agency has listened to its customers and is updating its policy to provide better customer service to vulnerable populations in the United States.
However, it is important to keep in mind that the policy is limited to specific recipients. There are multiple opportunities during the decision process to verify a person’s identity. Those who cannot use their online account to apply for other benefits will need to verify their identity in person.
SSA will enforce online digital identity proofing or in-person identity proofing for certain cases. The agency is developing a process that would require documentation and management approval to bypass such policy in certain cases. There will be exceptions, such as “extreme dire-need situations” like terminal cases or prisoner pre-release scenarios.
The deadline for the changes will be April 14, as this allows employees to receive the training they need to help customers. Social Security beneficiaries won’t be able to conduct some business over the phone, such as changing their bank account information.
Learn More About Social Security Disability Benefits
Social Security Disability benefits are a necessity for disabled Americans. It’s good that they have options to complete their claims and do not necessarily have to apply in person
A White Plains Social Security Disability lawyer from The Law Office of Michael Lawrence Varon can help you get the benefits you need. The process is not always easy, but you can count on us to handle even the most complex claims. Call (914) 228-1770 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
Source:
forbes.com/sites/kellyphillipserb/2025/03/26/social-security-changes-position-on-controversial-phone-service-cuts/
