1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I’m writing to express my deep concern about the Social Security Administration’s decision to eliminate phone verification for direct deposit and identity verification. This change, set to take effect on March 31, will make it significantly harder for seniors and disabled individuals—many of whom lack reliable internet access or transportation—to receive their benefits. With SSA offices already understaffed and facing record wait times, forcing in-person visits will only add unnecessary barriers to a system that millions rely on. If fraud prevention is truly the goal, there are better solutions that don’t create hardships for the most vulnerable. Strengthening phone-based verification or increasing SSA staffing would be far more effective and less disruptive. I urge you to push back against this decision and advocate for policies that improve Social Security access rather than making it more difficult for those who need it most. Please let me know where you stand on this issue and what steps you plan to take.