After a gap of six years, National Social Security Month has made a comeback. The Social Security Administration (SSA) relaunched the campaign in April 2025, focusing on preventing fraud and helping citizens understand their benefits better.
If you depend on Social Security benefits now or plan to in the future, the return of this national month could have significant implications for you. Understanding the updates can help you secure your financial future.
National Social Security Comeback Story
National Social Security Month was last observed during the Trump administration but was discontinued during President Joe Biden’s term. In 2025, it was reintroduced under President Donald Trump’s second term. This year, the emphasis is on combating fraud. As identity theft and online scams become more prevalent, Social Security recipients have increasingly become prime targets. The SSA’s goal is to educate the public, enhance security, and introduce anti-fraud measures that can directly affect how you handle your benefits.
The campaign also marks the 90th anniversary of the Social Security program, serving as both a celebration and a renewed commitment to protecting beneficiaries.
Strengthening Fraud Prevention
The SSA has introduced several new measures to strengthen fraud prevention:
- Enhanced Security: To safeguard customer information, the SSA has implemented new sign-in procedures, including a transition to Login.gov or ID.me for accounts created before September 18, 2021.
- Direct Deposit Changes: Phone updates to direct deposit information are no longer allowed. To change your deposit details, you must use your my Social Security account, which requires online identity verification. If you encounter login issues, visit your local SSA office to verify your identity.
- Improved Identity Checks: New tools now detect suspicious activities. If irregularities arise during benefit applications, you’ll be required to visit the SSA office to confirm your identity.
How Your Finances Are Impacted
Protecting Your Income: Fraud related to Social Security can lead to prolonged financial issues. The SSA’s new measures aim to prevent stolen or misplaced payments, particularly important for those who rely on benefits as their primary income source.
Faster Processing: Streamlined identity checks mean quicker claim resolutions, minimizing delays when accessing your benefits. More Informed Decisions: As part of the campaign, the SSA encourages beneficiaries to regularly check their my Social Security accounts, review earnings, and gain insights into their entitlements.
Given the rise in scams, it’s crucial to stay informed. National Social Security Month aims to help you secure your benefits and make better use of available resources. Take a few moments to verify your Social Security details and explore the tools provided to stay protected.
