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