Understanding FICA: Essential Information on Social Security and Medicare Tax Rates
FICA, the Federal Insurance Contributions Act, pertains to the federal payroll tax that taxpayers should understand.
Georgians in need of assistance from Social Security may want to locate their nearest office.
Last week, the Social Security Administration announced updates to its security policies, now mandating both beneficiaries and applicants to verify their identity in person if they cannot access their “My Social Security” account, which includes online identity verification.
Previously, individuals unable to confirm their identity online could call the agency or visit a Social Security office. They could also modify banking details over the phone but were still required to verify their identity online.
The agency’s “enhanced identity verification procedures” will take effect by next week. According to a leaked memo from Leland Dudek, Social Security Administration commissioner, these changes aim to better prevent fraudulent claims and will have a significant impact on “vulnerable populations.”
Here’s what you need to know regarding the policy change, including the implementation deadline and scheduling an in-person appointment.
Who Will Be Affected?
The most affected individuals will be those who lack internet access or are unable to leave their homes. Dudek estimates that between 75,000 and 85,000 additional Americans will need to visit Social Security offices weekly.
Where Can You Find Social Security Offices in Georgia?
As per the SSA website, Georgia has 34 Social Security offices:
| Albany | Cordele | LaGrange | Tifton |
| Athens | Covington | Macon | Toccoa |
| Atlanta DT | Dalton | Milledgeville | Valdosta |
| Atlanta West | Decatur | Morrow | Vidalia |
| Augusta | Dublin | Newnan | Villa Rica |
| Blue Ridge | Gainesville | Rome | Warner Robins |
| Brunswick | Griffin | Savannah | Waycross |
| Columbus | Gwinnett | Statesboro | Winder |
| Kennesaw | Thomasville |
What Is Prompting the Change in Social Security?
This adjustment follows recent announcements from the Trump administration regarding the closure of numerous local Social Security offices, and a memo recommending that individuals no longer be allowed to make changes over the phone, as reported by USA Today last week.
Details regarding the specific types of documents required to verify a person’s identity are yet to be clarified.
When Will This Policy Change Take Effect?
The new policy will go into effect on Monday, March 31.
Individuals requiring Social Security services who cannot utilize their personal “My Social Security” account for any reason will need to visit a local Social Security office to verify their identity in person.
What Is ‘My Social Security’?
My Social Security is a free and secure online account through the SSA that offers personalized tools for everyone, regardless of whether they receive benefits or not.
Users can request a replacement Social Security card, track the status of their application, estimate future benefits, or manage their current benefits via the account, according to the website.
Many notices are now accessible online. By creating an account, individuals can opt to receive notices online instead of through traditional mail and can request email or text alerts for available notices.
Having an account also allows people to sign up for direct deposit, obtain a 1099 form, update their address, generate benefit letters, check application status, and perform other tasks.
How Will I Know If I Need to Schedule an In-Person Appointment?
Your needs and situation will determine the answer.
The Social Security Administration will permit applicants who cannot use the online “My Social Security” services to initiate their benefit claims over the phone. However, the claim cannot be fully processed until the applicant’s identity is confirmed in person.
“Some tasks can begin online and must finish in an office, but starting online saves time,” the agency noted. “We’ll assist you in scheduling an appointment to visit when necessary. If you don’t start online, please call to set up an appointment before visiting.”
Applicants who go to their local Social Security office in person, with or without an appointment, will be required to provide proof of identity.
Do I Need to Visit in Person to Update Direct Deposit Information?
Yes, if you are unable to access or utilize the agency’s online “My Social Security” services.
To update or change your direct deposit information, you will need to visit a local office or call 800-772-1213 to schedule an in-person appointment.
Are There Any Other Changes Happening?
The agency has announced it will expedite processing requests for direct deposit changes—both in person and online—to one business day. Previously, individuals had to wait up to 30 days for direct deposit changes to take effect, according to a news release from the agency.
What Services Does Social Security Offer Online?
Applicants or beneficiaries can request changes or services online, including:
How to Schedule an In-Person Appointment
Any Social Security beneficiary or applicant can call 800-772-1213 to arrange an in-person appointment or visit the online portal to find their local office’s location.
Miguel Legoas is a reporter for the Deep South Connect Team at Gannett/USA Today. Follow him on X and Instagram @miguelegoas or email him at mlegoas@gannett.com.
