Avisery Alert:

SSA Rescinds Requirements for

Most In-Person Appointments

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has reversed its decision, originally scheduled to take effect on April 14, 2025, to eliminate telephone -based applications. 

Individuals interested in applying for Social Security Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary benefits will now be able to continue doing so over the phone; in person appointments will not be required for these applicants as had originally been stated. SSA will, however, institute new anti-fraud checks on phone applications and will flag any claims that they determine to be potentially fraudulent. Those applicants with flagged claims must then verify their identity by visiting an office in person.  

In-person appointments will still be required for those individuals interested in changing their direct deposit information if the person cannot do so online through a MySocialSecurity account and tips for best times of the day to call SSA.  

Last Thursday, Avisery sent an alert reporting on these since-rescinded changes.  The other topics in that alert remain in effect, including information on how to set up a MySocialSecurity account. Please review the link for further details.  

If you have any questions or need help counseling older adults and adults with disabilities on Medicare, Medicaid, or other health benefits programs, please reach out to Avisery at avisery@ageoptions.org or 708-628-3440.