Message from the Social Protection Administration: changes to identity verification procedures

Transition to stronger identity verification procedures

The Social Protection Administration (SPA) stated that soon those who cannot use the online tool for identity verification will have to visit a local social protection office in person to verify their identity.

Changes in the effectiveness of procedures

'Over the next two weeks, SPA will carefully transition to stronger identity verification procedures for both benefit applications and changes in direct payments,' the statement said.

'Individuals seeking these services who cannot use their personal account in 'My Social Protection', which requires online identity verification, will then need to visit the local social protection office to verify their identity in person,' the statement added.

Protection of social benefits and fraud prevention

The changes are aimed at 'protecting records and social benefits from fraudulent activities,' the agency reported, and are to take effect by March 31.

Implementation of new rules for applying for benefits

People who do not use the online services 'My Social Protection' can still apply for benefits over the phone, but the application will only be completed after in-person identity verification.

To avoid long queues at social protection offices across the country, SPA recommends that people call and request an appointment for an in-person meeting, 'to start and complete the application in one interaction.'

Creating an account for 'My Social Protection'

People who do not yet have an account for 'My Social Protection' can create one here.

Faster process for changing direct payments

The agency announced that it will also speed up the processing Time for requests to change direct payments to one business day. Previously, changes were delayed for 30 days.

Report on workforce reduction

Last month, a U.S. government agency that provides benefits to tens of millions of U.S. retirees announced plans to cut 7,000 jobs as part of the Trump administration's plan to reduce the size of the federal workforce.

According to Reuters, SPA pays pensions to 73 million retirees and disabled individuals each month.

Call for social protection safeguard

'Americans deserve to have their social security records protected with the utmost integrity and care,' said Social Security Deputy Commissioner Lee Dudek. 'For too long, the agency has relied on outdated methods of identity verification. Social security can more effectively protect Americans by speeding up the services provided.'

Note that this information has been provided by Reuters.