Social Security Reverses Controversial Accessibility Rules Amid Public Outcry

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has reversed a controversial policy that would have required most applicants, including retirees, people with disabilities, and rural residents, to verify their identities in person—a move that drew strong criticism from advocates and the public. Instead, beneficiaries can continue to apply for and manage their accounts by phone or online, with in-person verification only required for accounts flagged by internal fraud detection tools. The rollback addresses concerns about accessibility, as millions of seniors and people with disabilities lack reliable transportation or internet access, and many face long wait times for appointments or live far from SSA offices. Changes to direct deposit information, however, still require online or in-person verification to prevent fraud. The SSA's decision follows extensive outreach, media attention, and feedback from Congress and advocacy groups, aiming to maintain beneficiary access while strengthening fraud prevention. These actions reflect the agency’s commitment to balancing security with the needs of vulnerable populations.