At Mirus Financial Partners, we keep a close eye on changes that affect your financial future—and a new rule from the Social Security Administration (SSA) may impact how you manage your benefits.

Starting April 14, 2025, some individuals will need to visit a Social Security field office in person to verify their identity before they can claim benefits or change direct deposit information. While the SSA says the move is meant to strengthen security and prevent fraud, the sudden implementation has led to plenty of questions.

We’ve broken down the essentials so you can understand whether this rule applies to you—and how to avoid unnecessary trips or delays.

Do These Requirements Affect You?

The in-person requirement only applies to individuals who do not have a personal my Social Security account. If you already use your online account to manage your benefits, you’re in the clear. You can continue filing claims, setting up direct deposit, or making changes without visiting an office.

However, if you don’t have an online account and are trying to:

• Apply for retirement, survivor, spousal, or dependent child benefits
• Change direct deposit information for any type of benefit
• Update your mailing address if you currently receive paper checks

…then yes, you’ll need to verify your identity in person before your request is processed.

You’re exempt from this rule if you're:

• Applying for Medicare
• Filing for Social Security disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) In those cases, you can still apply by phone.

Already receiving benefits with no changes needed? You’re good to go—your payments will continue on schedule, and no additional steps are required.

The Fast-Track: Creating a My Social Security Account

Want to avoid a trip to the SSA office altogether? You can create a My Social Security account online at ssa.gov/myaccount. It’s secure, free, and offers a streamlined way to:

• Apply for new benefits
• Make changes to your existing direct deposit information
• Request a replacement Social Security card
• Check your earnings record and estimated benefits

To verify your identity online, you’ll need to sign in using Login.gov or ID.me—two credential services that meet government security standards. Already have an account with either provider? You’re ahead of the game.

If You Need to Go in Person

Can’t or don’t want to create an online account? You can still apply for benefits or update your information by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. Just know that your claim won’t move forward until your identity is confirmed at a local office.

To avoid long waits, the SSA recommends scheduling an appointment. You can find your nearest office using the Social Security Office Locator. Keep in mind that phone wait times can be lengthy—the average hold time is over an hour—and appointment availability is tight, with fewer than half of appointments scheduled within a month.

Important Note for Long-Time Users

If you created your My Social Security account before September 18, 2021, you may need to upgrade your login credentials. The SSA now requires users to log in through Login.gov or ID.me. Not sure if this affects you? Log in at ssa.gov/myaccount for instructions.

Watch for Scams

With any government change, unfortunately, scams are never far behind. Be cautious if you receive a call, text, or email from someone claiming to be from the SSA—especially if they ask for personal information or urge immediate action.

The SSA will never:

• Text you or contact you via social media
• Threaten your benefits
• Ask you to pay money or share personal info over the phone

When in doubt, hang up and call the SSA directly. You can also visit ssa.gov/scam to learn more about protecting yourself.

At Mirus Financial Partners, we’re committed to helping you stay informed and prepared for every phase of your financial journey. If you have questions about how these changes could affect your retirement planning, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.