The Social Security Administration has issued two alerts concerning changes to accessing Social Security benefits online and fraudulent reports circulating about additional payments. Those who access their benefits through a “my Social Security” account will soon have to access their accounts through either login.gov or ID.me, two Credential Service Providers used by many government online services. If you already have an account with either service, you won’t need to create a new one, but if you don’t, you’ll need to create an account with one of them in the near future.
The second alert addresses fraudulent reports claiming that Social Security beneficiaries are due an additional $600 cost of living adjustment (COLA) in 2024 or a $600 stimulus check. These reports are false and are generated by websites looking to attract a lot of public attention to boost their rankings in search engines and increase ad revenue. The next real COLA adjustment will be announced in October and will go into effect on January 1, 2025.
It is important for individuals to stay informed about changes to accessing their Social Security benefits online and to be cautious of fraudulent reports circulating. By creating an account with login.gov or ID.me, individuals will be able to continue accessing their my Social Security account without any disruptions. Additionally, it is important to verify information before believing reports of additional payments or benefits to avoid falling victim to scams or misinformation.
The switch to accessing Social Security accounts through login.gov or ID.me is aimed at providing additional security and protection for individuals’ information and simplifying the sign-in process. By utilizing these trusted Credential Service Providers, the Social Security Administration aims to enhance the overall online experience for beneficiaries accessing their benefits through the my Social Security account.
As the Social Security Administration continues to make updates and improvements to the online account access process, it is important for individuals to stay informed and proactive in ensuring they can access their benefits without any issues. By following the guidelines set forth by the SSA and being cautious of fraudulent reports, beneficiaries can protect their information and avoid falling victim to scams or misleading information circulating online.
In conclusion, the recent alerts issued by the Social Security Administration highlight the importance of staying informed about changes to accessing benefits online and being cautious of fraudulent reports. By following the instructions provided by the SSA and creating an account with login.gov or ID.me, individuals can continue to access their benefits securely and efficiently. It is crucial to verify information and avoid falling for false reports to protect one’s personal information and ensure they receive the correct benefits as scheduled.
