Update on changes to Social Security Enrollment
From the Executive Office of Aging and Idendence :
As March 31st this month, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will require in-person visits for those seeking information on records and benefits if they cannot verify their identity using the “My Social Security” online application. The process for changing a direct deposit, getting a replacement card, filing for survivor benefits, or starting a claim for benefits can be started over the phone but will require an in-person visit to verify identity. Appointments would need to be made in advance for in-person visits.
This would include getting a new card for the following reasons:
Name change (check yours if you got married/divorced/otherwise changed name for you and/or children)
Lost or stolen card
Damaged (including laminated) card
This does have implications in terms of REAL ID – if an original social security card is needed, the request should be put in ASAP if the person would be requesting the card over the phone.
SSA has required in-person work recently and so claims that the staffing can handle the in-person visits.