Latest news with #PersonalIdentificationNumber
Hindustan Times
07-08-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Social Security updates: What to know about security pin requirement, paper checks vs direct deposits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently clarified a confusion regarding the introduction of their new Personal Identification Number (PIN) feature. This modification has come following criticism from advocacy groups regarding the reach of such an improvement. Social Security updates: What to know about security pin requirement, paper checks vs direct deposits(REUTERS) PIN no longer mandatory The SSA had earlier declared that from August 18, recipients would either need to go online or visit an in-person office to get their personal PIN. This is necessary to conduct basic tasks like address updates, tax form requests, and claiming status checks. Although aimed at improving security measures, this will significantly boost the number of field visits made by recipients per year. Many individuals, such as Kathleen Romig from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, raised issues in the interest of those residing in rural or other inaccessible areas. The group even questioned whether the action was entirely necessary, given the considerable additional effort and pain it would entail. SSA Commissioner Frank Bisignano received a letter from The American Association of Retired Persons, which indicated that many individuals with disabilities, those with a retired background, or those with a lack of access to technology may not be able to participate in the same. The spokesperson for the organization has now confirmed that the PIN is no longer mandatory, as reported by News Nation. Beneficiaries can continue to use the 'my Social Security' tab or existing identity verification methods. Although a regulatory filing for the same hasn't been made yet, the SSA plans on amending it soon. Direct deposit mandate Adding to the list of recent changes introduced by the SSA, starting September 30, no paper checks will be issued to beneficiaries. All recipients must now receive their payments through direct deposit or online transfer. The move aims to save costs and reduce fraud associated with mailing checks. Beneficiaries are advised to update their payment mode to receive benefits in a due manner. They must enroll for the same before the deadline to avoid payment delays. – With inputs from Stuti Gupta
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
WorkForce WV announces new text campaign for their Unemployment Insurance program
CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) — WorkForce West Virginia announced a new text campaign in tandem with their Unemployment Insurance (UI) Program effort to connect those unemployed or underemployed in the Mountain state with helpful resources. According to a press release, text messages from WorkForce West Virginia will be from the phone number, 1-800-252-5627, and will never ask for information such as your Social Security Number, Personal Identification Number, or bank details. Governor Morrisey signs food dye ban into law This is an excellent opportunity to reach eligible West Virginians and share necessary information to ensure that everyone who qualifies for UI benefits can successfully navigate the application process and receive the support they need. However, WorkForce West Virginia will never include links in text messages. If action is required, you will be directed to visit your local unemployment office or our official website for more information. WorkForce will not communicate information related to specific claims or awards via text message and will never request your sensitive information. Scott Adkins | Acting Commissioner, WorkForce West Virginia Messages coming from those pretending to work with WorkForce may try to steal your information. If you receive a message that asks for sensitive information or tries to get you to click a link, do not reply to them. Report it by visiting WorkForce's website and navigating to Report Suspected Fraud. If you wish to no longer receive text updates, you may opt out at any time, the release stated. 27th annual Women's Expo celebrates Women's History Month and small businesses The UI program is a vital support system for those and their families experiencing unemployment or underemployment, allowing them to access assistance until they find full-time employment. To be eligible, individuals must have lost their job through no fault of their own or be working less than full-time. Those accepted into the program must be available and able to work full-time. Staff can assist people regarding requirements and filing claims as needed. Those that meet the criteria are urged to file their UI claims online on the WorkForce website. For those with limited access to the internet or computers, local offices are ready to assist in filing claims. For more information regarding the UI program or to file a claim, visit the WorkForce website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
11-02-2025
- Yahoo
Stolen SNAP benefits are not guaranteed to be refunded in Massachusetts, tips to prevent theft
BOSTON (WWLP) – The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is warning benefit recipients to increase the protection of their electronic benefits transfer (EBT) accounts. DTA says they've seen an increase in Massachusetts residents reporting benefits being stolen from their EBT accounts, mostly through skimming. Skimming is when an illegal device is placed on a card reader that allows thieves to electronically steal EBT account information when recipients swipe their card at checkout. State fix-eyed after stolen benefits protection ends The state assures that currently DTA/EBT systems are operational and have not been compromised. There is no guarantee that funds stolen after December 20, 2024, will be replaced as Congress failed to extend a deadline for reimbursement. Even though stolen SNAP benefits can no longer be reimbursed for thefts occurring after December 20, 2024, DTA clients should still report all stolen benefits in case additional funding becomes available at a later date. DTA offers these steps to help prevent benefits thefts: DTA launched a new EBT card locking feature that allows clients to control when their card is usable by locking and unlocking it through the free DTA Connect mobile app and web portal. Benefits cannot be stolen when an EBT card is locked. DTA clients are still encouraged to change their EBT card PIN frequently – at least once a month before their benefits are issued. Never provide your personal information, EBT card number, or Personal Identification Number (PIN) to unidentified callers, or to a link provided via text or email. If you get TAFDC or EAEDC, you can call your case manager to ask about having your benefits deposited to your bank account. DTA clients can find more information about how to protect their benefits, including videos and instructions on how to lock your EBT card in multiple languages,and steps to take if benefits have been compromised here: WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
