The Social Security Administration (SSA) is making changes that beneficiaries should know about. Understanding these updates will help you avoid problems with your Social Security benefits.
Full withholding of overpaid Social Security benefits
Starting March 27, 2025, the SSA will take 100% of your monthly Social Security benefits if the SSA overpaid you. In the past, the SSA only took 10% of a person’s benefits each month to recover overpayments. This new policy means that some people may not receive any benefits for months if they owe money to Social Security.
Overpayments happen for many reasons. Sometimes, you could earn more than expected, but the SSA does not adjust your benefits right away. Other times, your living situation changes, but the SSA does not update its records quickly enough. These delays can cause you to receive more money than you should, even if you did nothing wrong.
If you receive an overpayment notice, you can ask for a different payment plan if losing your full benefits would cause financial hardship. You must call the SSA or visit a local office to make this request. You can also appeal the overpayment if you think it was a mistake. If you cannot afford to pay back the money, you may apply for a waiver, which would cancel the debt.
New rules for direct deposits and phone services
Starting March 29, 2025, recipients will not be able to change their bank account information over the phone. The SSA made this decision because nearly 40% of fraud cases involving Social Security direct deposits happen when someone changes their banking details by phone.
If you need to update your bank account, you must now use the SSA’s website. You will be required to create a “myssa” account. Log into your account, which uses two-factor authentication for security. The other option is to visit a local SSA office. You must bring identification to verify your identity. most local offices are understaffed and some do not take walk-in cases. You should make an appointment first.
Other phone services will not change. You can still call the SSA for general questions and assistance.
Be aware that these changes could affect your Social Security payments. Staying informed will help you protect your benefits and avoid unexpected problems.
