WASHINGTON, D.C. – Millions of Social Security beneficiaries will soon face a change in how they manage their benefits, as the Social Security Administration (SSA) is set to discontinue phone-based bank account updates.
Effective March 29, individuals receiving Social Security payments will no longer be able to update their direct deposit information over the phone. The SSA announced that this policy shift is part of a broader effort to enhance security and reduce fraud.
Beneficiaries will now be required to update their banking details through the “my Social Security” online portal, which includes two-factor authentication for added protection. Those unable or unwilling to use the online system will need to visit a local Social Security office in person to make any changes.
The SSA emphasized that this change aligns with security practices used by most major banks. Despite the new restrictions on banking updates, all other SSA telephone services will remain unchanged.
For more information or assistance, beneficiaries are encouraged to visit www.ssa.gov or contact their local SSA office.
