If you thought handling Social Security over the phone was frustrating, brace yourself—it’s about to get way worse. Long wait times and endless phone calls were already a nightmare, but now the Social Security Administration (SSA) is making things even harder.
They just dropped a bombshell: starting Monday, March 31, you won’t be able to finalize your claims over the phone anymore. That means thousands of people—up to 85,000 more Americans per week—will be forced to utilize online services or visit Social Security offices in person, adding to the chaos and frustration.
According to SSA Commissioner Martin O’Malley, they simply don’t have enough staff to process claims over the phone like they used to. The SSA also claims that this new procedure increases security measures.
The system is already slow, but now more people will be crowding into offices, making wait times longer and the process even more painful.
This change comes just weeks after the Trump administration announced the closure of dozens of local Social Security offices, making it even harder for people to access services. With fewer offices open and more people required to visit in person, the situation is shaping up to be a bureaucratic nightmare.
Who’s Going to Suffer the Most?
While this change affects everyone, it’s likely going to hit vulnerable populations the hardest—seniors, people with disabilities, and folks who don’t have easy transportation.
Imagine someone in a wheelchair or an elderly person with mobility issues having to trek down to a government office just to finish their paperwork. It’s a disaster waiting to happen.
Now, new applicants and current beneficiaries will be required to provide proof of identity in person if they don’t have or can’t access their “My Social Security” account.
Additional Changes to Know About
To soften the blow of this policy change, the SSA says it will speed up direct deposit processing—both online and in person—to just one business day. Previously, people had to wait up to 30 days for their payments to update, so at least there’s a small silver lining.
If you don’t or can’t use the agency’s online “my Social Security” services, you can still start a benefits claim over the phone. But here’s the catch: your claim won’t be fully processed until you verify your identity in person. That means a trip to your local Social Security office is still required.
Whether you have an appointment or just show up, you’ll need to bring proof of identity—but the agency hasn’t made it clear exactly what documents will be required.
If you need to visit an office, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment or find the nearest location.
Is There Any Way Around This?
Right now, your best bet is to handle everything online. If you must visit an office, prepare for long lines, potential delays, and a whole lot of frustration.
