On March 31, the game changed for New Mexico seniors with limited tech skills.
New rules by the Social Security Administration mean seniors without online ID verification will lose access to their Social Security accounts.
For people whose daily Internet use is routine, it’s no big deal. For seniors who don’t use computers, or smart phones or make online medical appointments or purchases, it is absolutely terrifying.
In rural areas, phone or in-person alternatives are vanishing. It’s time for those of us who have these skills to share our privilege, and help those who need it. Don’t complain: DO something!
Show, tell and do
It takes only 15 minutes to help a senior complete their online ID verification. We are organizing “Pop-Up” events in your community where you can help seniors continue to have access to their Social Security Administration accounts. Sign up to help and you’ll be provided everything you need. All we ask is one hour of your time!
- Affected Individuals: The new safeguards will primarily affect individuals who do not have access to a “My Social Security” account, which requires online identity verification
- Login.gov and ID.me: Individuals who created a my Social Security account with a username and password before September 18, 2021, will need to begin using either Login.gov or ID.me to continue accessing their my Social Security account
- No More Phone Verification: The SSA will no longer accept identity verification over the phone for most services, including benefit claims and direct deposit changes.
- Online Identity Proofing: Individuals will need to use the agency’s online “my Social Security” service, which requires online identity proofing, to verify their identity.
- In-Person Verification: Those who cannot successfully use the online service will need to visit a local Social Security office in person to complete the verification process.
Travel impact on New Mexico seniors (for understaffed centers)
DO Something! – ASCEND Digital Outreach
- ASCEND is initially partnering with the Chaves, San Juan, Bernalillo and McKinley County 100% New Mexico Initiatives to provide Digital Outreach through Community Navigators. We invite all other 100% New Mexico Initiatives to join!
- ASCEND is coordinating support with Teeniors to extend Digital Outreach efforts to rural areas where access to Internet and digital literacy levels are low among seniors.
- SOS events are being scheduled now at Senior Centers, Community Schools, Charter Schools, Early Childhood Centers and participating community organizations – meeting seniors where they are. We will start with “free help days” to locally assess needs and determine how best to replicate what works in each community.