What's Really Happening with Social Security

 

Gemini

The Facebook posts about Social Security have taken on new life this month. What's really going on? Here's the skinny:

No, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is not about to change its name. 

Changes within the organization and in its business practices include:

• Restructuring and organizational changes within the SSA's internal offices and operations.
• A transition to fully electronic benefit payments. The SSA will no longer issue paper checks for most beneficiaries, starting September 30, 2025.
• Changes to how individuals access online services. These changes require the use of Login.gov or ID.me accounts instead of traditional Social Security usernames and passwords, according to the SSA.
• New rules regarding in-person services, potentially requiring appointments for visits to local SSA offices. 

Note that these changes do not involve the name "Social Security" or the agency's mission to provide social security benefits.