As an attorney serving seniors and families throughout Cincinnati, we want you to be aware of important changes coming to Social Security this month. Starting April 14, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is rolling out new rules that affect how benefits are filed, how payments are managed, and how overpayments are handled.
These updates could make it harder for vulnerable individuals—especially widows, widowers, and those without access to reliable internet—to get the support they rely on. Below, we explain what’s changing, how it could affect you or a loved one, and what you can do now to prepare.
1. No More Applying by Phone After April 14
As of April 14, 2025, you will no longer be able to apply for Social Security benefits over the phone. Instead, you must either:
•Visit a Social Security field office to complete the application in person, or
•File online using your “my Social Security” account, which requires identity verification through an online service
This change affects people applying for retirement, survivor, and auxiliary benefits. Unfortunately, some individuals—like widows and widowers—cannot apply online and must now rely on in-person appointments. With local SSA offices already facing staffing shortages, we expect delays in scheduling, possibly stretching into months.
2. Direct Deposit Changes Must Be Made In Person or Online
If you need to update your direct deposit information, you must now do so online or by visiting a field office. Phone updates will no longer be accepted starting April 14.
This change may seem minor, but it creates serious barriers for seniors and individuals without online access, transportation, or technical support.
3. In-Person Identity Verification for Certain Applications
The SSA is implementing new identity-proofing requirements for some applicants. If you can’t verify your identity online and are applying for retirement, survivor, or auxiliary benefits, you’ll need to complete verification in person at a Social Security office.
Notably, this rule does not apply to individuals applying for:
•Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
•Medicare
•Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
While the goal is to reduce fraud, the requirement could make it harder for many to access the benefits they’ve earned, particularly those with mobility issues or without local support systems.
4. Full Recovery of Overpayments to Resume
In another major change, the SSA will once again begin withholding 100% of monthly benefits to recover overpayments. Previously, there was a 10% cap on how much could be withheld each month. Now, if you were overpaid—even through no fault of your own—your entire monthly check may be withheld until the amount is paid back.
This change could create financial hardship for many, especially those already living on fixed incomes.
5. Positive News: Social Security Fairness Act Repeals WEP and GPO
Not all the news is bad. The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law in January 2025, repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO).
This is a big win for public sector retirees—like Ohio teachers, police officers, and firefighters—who previously saw their benefits reduced due to receiving a pension from non-Social Security-covered work.
This change is expected to raise monthly benefits by an average of $360, with retroactive payments beginning in April 2025.
What You Can Do Now
These changes are coming quickly, and we urge all Cincinnati residents to take action now:
•Set up a “My Social Security” account at ssa.gov if you haven’t already
• Verify and update your personal information
• Schedule in-person appointments early to avoid long wait times
• Help aging relatives or neighbors navigate the system, especially if they don’t use computers
Social Security is making one of its biggest policy shifts in years. While some changes may improve efficiency, others could create obstacles—especially for those who rely on these benefits the most.
The best thing you can do right now is stay informed and plan ahead.