The Social Security Administration has announced several important updates that could affect millions of Americans. From improving accuracy in death records to streamlining hearing transcripts with artificial intelligence and tightening security around direct deposit changes, here's what you need to know about the latest changes at the SSA.
Death Record Updates: Correcting Mistaken Death Reports
The SSA processes over 3 million death reports each year from sources such as states, funeral homes, federal agencies, and financial institutions. A recent SSA press release said that less than one-third of 1% of these reports are inaccurate — but when errors happen, the consequences can be severe.
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If a person is mistakenly reported as deceased, their Social Security benefits are stopped, which can create financial hardship for their spouse and dependent children. The process to correct the mistake can feel overwhelming and lengthy.
If you suspect that you've been incorrectly listed as deceased, the SSA advises contacting your local Social Security office immediately. You’ll need to bring at least one original, unexpired form of identification. The SSA says they will take immediate action to fix the error and can provide a letter confirming the correction, which you can share with banks, employers, and other organizations.
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AI Hearings: New System to Improve Transcript Accuracy
The SSA also announced that it is completing the rollout of its new Hearing Recording and Transcriptions, or HeaRT, system. The HeaRT system replaces outdated hardware with a software-based solution that records and transcribes hearings more efficiently using AI.
The new system is expected to improve the accuracy of transcripts and reduce delays caused by equipment failure or technical issues. HeaRT will support all hearing formats — in-person, telephone, and video — providing greater flexibility for beneficiaries.
"By eliminating outdated systems and replacing them with innovative software that is proven to work, we are improving our services for Americans and saving millions each year," said Acting SSA Commissioner Lee Dudek.
The SSA estimates that the HeaRT system will save about $5 million annually while benefiting approximately 500,000 customers each year.
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Telephone Services: No Plans to Eliminate Customer Support
Recent reports have claimed that the SSA plans to eliminate telephone services — but the agency has clarified that these reports are inaccurate. While general telephone services will remain in place, the SSA is changing how beneficiaries can update their direct deposit information to reduce fraud.
The SSA said that about 40% of direct deposit fraud occurs when someone calls in to change bank account information. To protect against this, the SSA will now require individuals to either:
- Use two-factor authentication with their "my Social Security" account; or
- Visit a local Social Security office in person with identification.
These updated security measures align with industry standards used by most major banks. The SSA emphasized that all other telephone services, including general customer support, will remain unchanged.
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