In 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is rolling out significant digital access changes to modernize how people interact with benefit systems.
These changes affect how you log in, view your Social Security Number (SSN) digitally, verify your identity, and how benefits are delivered.
If you’re a beneficiary or planning to become one, it’s important to understand these shifts.
What changes were made to how you sign into your SSA / my Social Security account?
As of June 7, 2025, the SSA discontinued the old “Social Security username and password” login option.
Now, only Login.gov or ID.me accounts can be used to access SSA online services.
If you already have a Login.gov or ID.me account, you can use it.
If not, you must set up one. Failure to move to the new system will block your access to your SSA online profile.
Can you view your Social Security Number (SSN) digitally now?
Yes. A key part of the digital changes is a new secure digital SSN feature, starting in 2025.
Once activated, my Social Security account holders can display their SSN securely online via their portal or mobile device.
This feature helps people who have lost their physical SSN card or forgotten their number and reduces the need for in-person office visits.
What is changing in how benefits payments are delivered digitally?
Starting September 30, 2025, the SSA will stop issuing paper checks for Social Security benefit payments.
After that date, payments will only go via direct deposit into a bank or savings account, or onto a Direct Express® prepaid debit card for those without a traditional bank account.
This change aims to enhance efficiency, reduce fraud risk, and avoid delays tied to mail.
What about identity proofing and verification changes?
From March 31, 2025, the SSA changed how identity verification works.
Beneficiaries applying for benefits, or existing ones who want to change direct deposit or other sensitive info, can no longer verify identity by phone.
If you cannot verify online using Login.gov / ID.me, you’ll now have to visit a field office in person to complete identity checks.
This is intended to reduce fraud but may make access harder for people in rural areas or with mobility or technology limitations.
What happens to phone services under these changes?
SSA also made changes to its phone-based services.
As of April 14, 2025, certain benefit applications and direct deposit changes can no longer be handled over the phone.
That means tasks once possible by calling may now require online action or an office visit.
Who is most affected or impacted by these 2025 digital access changes?
The hardest hit are likely:
- Beneficiaries who still rely on paper checks and have not yet switched to electronic payments.
- People without bank accounts or who resist technology.
- Residents in rural or remote areas where field offices are distant.
- Older adults or those with disabilities who may face trouble with in-person visits or setting up new login systems.
Less than 1 % of beneficiaries currently receive paper checks, but those individuals will need to act to avoid missing payments.
What should you do now to adapt to the digital changes?
Here’s what you should do:
- Switch to Login.gov or ID.me now if you haven’t. That’s required to access SSA online.
- Set up direct deposit or Direct Express® so you’re ready when paper checks are discontinued.
- Enable the digital SSN feature in your my Social Security account if eligible.
- If you anticipate needing identity changes, be prepared that you may have to do them in person.
- Watch for notifications from SSA to ensure you don’t miss updates or required actions.
