Month: July 2025

SSDI: Looking Ahead

SSDI is an absolute lifeline for many. The difficulty when navigating the application process for many older recipients has reached a critical point. As Frank Bisignano assumes leadership as the new head of the SSA, advocates are urging the SSA

By Posted in Social Security Changes in 2025

Digital Social Security Cards Coming Soon Part 2

The new digital feature will allow individuals who have either forgotten their Social Security number or who have lost their Social Security cards to access their personal number online through the agency’s My Social Security website. They will also be

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Digital Social Security Cards Coming Soon Part 1

The future is coming on fast. Starting this summer, the SSA will offer a digital version of the Social Security card through its My Social Security website. This option is intended to reduce the inconvenience of lost or stolen physical

By Posted in Social Security Changes in 2025

Push for In-Person Services Part 2

Though some updates can be made by phone if users can verify their identity online, advocates argue this system is too complex for many seniors and people with disabilities. Despite these efforts, fraud involving direct deposit misdirection remains extremely rare.

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Push for In-Person Services Part 1

The Trump administration had pushed for more in-person verification to combat fraud, including requiring office visits for certain claims. While the SSA has since relaxed some of those rules, direct deposit changes still typically require online or in-person updates. This

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Ongoing Customer Service Challenges

Long hold times and technical issues continue to frustrate users of SSA’s 800 number and website. These problems, lawmakers note, have persisted across multiple administrations. In response, the SSA is modernizing its telecom systems to improve service and promote online

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Student Loan and Debt Collection Resumes

As of May 5, the federal government resumed efforts to collect defaulted student loans. The Education Department may now use the Treasury Offset Program to garnish Social Security benefits, tax refunds, and wages. Other deductions may also apply for overdue

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Stricter Rules on Overpayments

The SSA frequently issues repayment demands for overpaid benefits, which may be reclaimed by withholding future checks. Under President Biden, the default withholding rate was lowered to 10% to ease financial strain. However, under Trump, the agency announced a return

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Increased Benefits for Millions

A major update came with the enactment of the Social Security Fairness Act in January, benefiting nearly 3 million individuals. This law boosts monthly payments for those who receive non-Social Security pensions such as teachers, firefighters, and certain federal workers

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Social Security Administration Under New Leadership and Policy Changes

Frank Bisignano has been confirmed as the new head of the Social Security Administration (SSA), taking the reins amid a series of changes implemented during the first 100 days of the Trump administration. Of these changes, many of them are

By Posted in Social Security Changes in 2025