The Social Security Administration (SSA) in the United States has introduced a new rule to improve the security of direct deposit information. This change is aimed at protecting people’s bank details, especially when they first apply for benefits or want to change their bank account information.
If you are already receiving your monthly Social Security payments and do not plan to make any changes, you don’t need to do anything. This new rule will not affect your regular payments.
What Has Changed?
In 2025, the SSA added stronger identity verification for certain cases. The goal is to prevent fraud and make sure that only the right person can update or add banking information.
However, this extra step is only required in two situations:
- When someone applies for Social Security benefits for the first time and wants to set up direct deposit
- When an existing beneficiary wants to change their registered bank account details
If you’re not in either of these two situations, you don’t have to verify anything. Your monthly check will continue to go into your current bank account without any delays or new steps.
When Do You Need to Verify Your Identity?
Here are the two times you must verify your identity with Social Security:
1. Applying for Benefits and Adding Bank Info
If you’re applying for Social Security for the first time and want the payment directly in your bank account, you will need to go through an identity check.
2. Changing Your Bank Details
If you already receive Social Security but want to switch to a new bank account, you’ll need to verify your identity before the new information is saved.
In both cases, the easiest and safest way to handle the verification is through the my Social Security online account. This personal account lets you update your information without visiting an SSA office or calling on the phone.
How to Keep Your Bank Details Safe
To help keep your direct deposit details secure and avoid delays or fraud, the SSA recommends the following tips:
- Create a my Social Security account even if you don’t need it right now. It makes future changes easier and safer.
- Never share your personal or bank details through email or over the phone unless it’s through the official SSA website or contact number.
- Update your bank information promptly if you change your bank or account number. This avoids delays in receiving your monthly check.
By managing your details online and staying alert, you can protect your information and ensure your benefits are paid on time.
No Action Needed If Nothing Has Changed
It’s important to remember that if you are already receiving your Social Security checks and you are not changing any bank information, you do not need to take any action. Your money will keep coming into your registered bank account as usual—no extra steps, no verification required.