Retirement groups work to curb loneliness
In the golden age, fighting loneliness and depression, Wisconsin’s seniors group is looking to add more members.
Fox – Milwaukee
If you’re struggling to keep up with all the Social Security changes that have happened so far this year, you’re not alone. The Trump administration has made a lot of effort to remodel the program so far, frequently leading to changes in rules, some of which have already been revised or reversed.
In the past four weeks alone, we have seen two social security changes that could have a significant impact on new applicants and existing beneficiaries. Here’s what you need to know about these recent changes:
1. Modification of new ID requirements
In March, the Social Security Agency (SSA) announced plans to enact new ID verification procedures for those who wish to apply for Social Security benefits or make changes to their accounts over the phone. The initial announcement showed that once these changes are in effect, they should go to the field office and ask someone to verify their identity before submitting the application or processing the changes.
A few weeks later, the SSA will amend this so that anyone applying for Social Security Disability Benefits, Medicare, or SSI can complete their application over the phone, and if anyone else chooses not to complete their application through my Social Security account, they will need to visit the field office.
The second revision was made on April 14th. The SSA has announced that SSA can do so by anyone who applies for Social Security or makes account changes over the phone. However, new technologies scan for signs of possible fraud. You may still need to access the Field Office, even if your account is flagged. That’s where things stand for the time being.
If you want to avoid all this hassle, your best bet is to do as much as you can through your “My Social Security” account. When opening an account for the first time, you will need to ask a few identity questions. However, you can then log in quickly with your username and password. It’s the fastest option to apply or change your address or direct deposit information, as you don’t need to deal with waiting times or appointments like telephone or in-person support.
2. Lower recovery rate for overpayment
In March, President Trump revived the 100% overpayment recovery rate that had been introduced before 2024. This allowed the Social Security Administration to withhold future checks for all, if necessary, to collect any accidental overpayments. This change in rules has put a 10% recovery cap in place due to overpayments that occurred prior to March 27, 2025.
However, as of April 25, the government had decided that all overpayments (past and future) would instead have a 50% recovery rate cap. This means that the government can withhold up to 50% of its future profits until it recovers the entire overpayment.
Overpayments are rare, but once they happen, losing half of the check can be devastating. Luckily, it’s not the only option to deal with overpayment. If you still have extra money, you can pay this directly back to the SSA if you first notice the problem. This will prevent the government from decorating future checks.
You could also contact the SSA and request a lower recovery rate if it is financially difficult to lose half of your check. There is an option to require the government to abandon its repayment collection completely. You might do this if you can prove that overpayment is not your fault and that it causes financial difficulties to pay it off.
If you have any questions about any of these rules changes, we recommend contacting the Social Security Agency directly. You may also want to keep your eyes apart from future changes that may affect you and your interests.
Motley Fools have a disclosure policy.
The Motley Fool is a partner at USA Today, providing financial news, analysis and commentary designed to help people control their financial lives. The content is produced independently of USA Today.
$22,924 Social Security Bonus Most retirees have completely overlooked
A miscellaneous fool’s offer: If you’re like most Americans, you’re a few years (or even more) behind your retirement savings. However, a few lesser known “social security secrets” can help ensure an increase in your retirement income.
It’s a simple trick and costs $22,924 each year. Once we learn how to maximize Social Security benefits, we can retire with confidence in the peace of mind we want. participateStock AdvisorFor more information about these strategies, see
See “Social Security Secrets”»
