The Social Security Administration (SSA) has clarified that its new Security Authentication PIN (SAP) policy, initially set to take effect in mid-August, will be entirely optional — a reversal that comes amid public concern and media scrutiny over the burden it would have placed on millions of seniors and people with disabilities.
The SSA confirmed to Newsweek on Thursday that beneficiaries and “my Social Security” account holders will not be required to visit a local field office or use the PIN feature to manage their benefits or verify identity.
“The filing with OMB will be amended to clarify that the use of the Security Authentication PIN (SAP) feature is entirely optional,” a spokesperson said.
What Was the Controversy?
The SSA had announced a multi-factor authentication policy requiring callers to use a new PIN verification process or visit field offices for routine tasks. With more than 68 million Americans receiving benefits, the policy drew strong opposition, particularly from:
The plan was expected to result in 3.4 million additional office visits per year, worsening wait times at already understaffed offices. The SSA has lost nearly 3,000 workers in recent years through reassignment and buyouts.
“You have to ask if the reduction in fraud is worth the additional hardship for seniors,” said Alex Beene, financial literacy instructor at the University of Tennessee.
Existing Phone Services Remain Intact
The SSA emphasized that beneficiaries can continue to use existing identity verification procedures when calling the National 800 Number — no PIN or in-person visit required.
Those who choose to use the SAP feature will still be able to speed up phone verification through secure identity matching, but it’s now completely voluntary.
Increased Clawbacks on Overpayment Debts
In a separate policy change, the SSA has begun withholding up to 50% of monthly benefits from individuals with overpayment debts — a major increase from the previous 10% cap under the Biden administration.
The agency is aiming to recover $32.8 billion in improper payments identified between 2020 and 2023. Affected recipients can:
What Else Changed in 2025?
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA): +2.5%, raising the average monthly benefit by $49.
Medicare Part B Premiums: Up $10.30 per month.
WEP and GPO Repealed: Roughly 2.8 million beneficiaries receiving both Social Security and a government pension saw higher payouts.
What You Should Do
No action is needed if you do not want to use the new PIN system.
Continue managing your account online or by phone using your current credentials.
Check your mail and online SSA inbox for notices about benefit changes, overpayment adjustments, or appeals.
If facing hardship, contact SSA to request a waiver or reduction in repayment.
