Don’t make it harder for seniors by cutting access to Social Security staff.

The Social Security Administration's new policy requiring in-person or online identity verification will severely impact millions of recipients and applicants who do not have access to the "My Social Security" online account. Mandating that these individuals physically visit a Social Security office to prove their identity creates an unnecessary burden, especially for senior citizens and those with limited mobility or transportation options. This updated policy threatens to reduce access to vital Social Security services for our most vulnerable populations. Instead of enacting measures that restrict access, the agency should focus on expanding services and making the process more accessible for all Americans. Cutting resources for field offices will only exacerbate the challenges faced by those seeking Social Security benefits. We urge you to reconsider this policy change and work towards increasing staffing and funding for local Social Security offices to better serve our communities. Protecting against fraud is important, but not at the cost of denying essential services to those who need them most.