SSA Tweaks Privacy Rules: More Ways to Share Your SSN Data
Published Date: 11/11/2025
Notice
Summary
The Social Security Administration is updating its records system that holds Social Security numbers and applications. These changes clarify where and who manages the records, simplify some rules, remove duplicates, and add new ways to share info with Homeland Security and other agencies. The updates take effect now, with some new sharing rules starting December 12, 2025, and the public has until then to share their thoughts.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
SSA data used in Do Not Pay reviews
Starting December 12, 2025, SSA may disclose records to the U.S. Department of the Treasury so Treasury can review SSA payment and award eligibility through the Do Not Pay Working System to identify, prevent, or recoup fraud and improper payments when disclosure meets 20 CFR 401.150(c). This can apply to applicants for, or recipients of, Federal funds, including state-administered federally funded programs.
SSA may share immigration status with DHS
Starting December 12, 2025, SSA may disclose information about anyone's citizenship and immigration status to the Department of Homeland Security under 8 U.S.C. 1373(a). This disclosure authority applies to records in the Master Files of SSN Holders and SSN Applications.
State DMVs can verify SSNs for IDs
SSA will disclose SSNs, names, and birthdates to State motor vehicle agencies or state ID programs so those agencies can verify identity information for people applying for driver's licenses or state identification cards. This routine use is part of the Master Files of SSN Holders and SSN Applications.
SSA verifies Title IV aid applicants' SSNs
SSA will provide SSNs and citizenship information to the Department of Education upon request to verify applicants for postsecondary financial assistance under Title IV of the Higher Education Act. This disclosure can affect eligibility determinations for federal student aid.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-06557 — Rescission of Obsolete Regulations Addressing Drug Addiction and Alcoholism Under Titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act
The Social Security Administration is wiping away old rules about drug addiction and alcoholism benefits that no longer make sense. This change affects people applying for Social Security under Titles II and XVI, making the system cleaner and easier to navigate starting April 3, 2026. No new costs or benefit changes—just a smart cleanup to keep things running smoothly!
2026-06182 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Comment Request
The Social Security Administration is updating how it collects info to keep things secure and easy for you. If you use my Social Security for benefits or direct deposit changes, you’ll need to verify your identity online or in person—no more phone changes. They want your thoughts by April 30, 2026, to make sure this process works well without causing extra hassle or cost.
2026-05600 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Request and Comment Request
The Social Security Administration wants your feedback on some updated forms they use to collect info, especially about fixing earnings records. If you or someone you know deals with Social Security earnings, this affects you! Comments are open until May 22, 2026, so jump in now to help make the process easier and clearer—no extra costs involved.
2026-03843 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Request
The Social Security Administration wants your thoughts on some forms they use to pick people who manage benefits for others. They’re updating these forms and asking for feedback by April 27, 2026, to make sure the process is clear and easy. This affects individuals and organizations applying to be payees, with no new costs but a chance to reduce paperwork hassle.
2025-23098 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Request and Comment Request
The Social Security Administration wants your thoughts on updating some forms they use to help kids get benefits when a parent retires, gets disabled, or passes away. They’re making small changes to make the process easier and less time-consuming. If you have ideas or concerns, speak up by February 17, 2026, so they can hear you before finalizing the updates.
2025-22534 — Rate for Assessment on Direct Payment of Fees to Representatives in 2026
Starting in 2026, the Social Security Administration will keep the fee assessment rate at 6.3% when paying representatives directly from past-due benefits. This means if you have a representative helping you, a small percentage of their fee will cover SSA’s costs. The maximum fee cap is $123, and these rules help keep things fair and clear for everyone involved.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-19848 — Notice of Availability of Final Policy Guidance for the Capital Investment Grants Program
The Federal Transit Administration just released the final rules for its Capital Investment Grants program, which helps fund big transit projects. These updated rules, effective right now, include changes based on public feedback and set clear steps for project sponsors to follow. If you’re planning a transit project, get ready to follow these new guidelines to secure funding!
Next: 2025-19850 — Emergency Order Establishing Operating Limitations on the Use of Navigable Airspace
Starting November 7, 2025, some airlines must cut their daily flights by 10% between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. to keep the skies safe and avoid delays. This temporary rule helps manage air traffic because there aren’t enough air traffic controllers right now. If you fly or work in aviation, expect fewer flights and some changes until the FAA says otherwise.
Take It Personal
Get Your Personalized Policy View
Start a Free Government Policy Watch to see how policy affects your household, then upgrade to PRIA Full Coverage for year-round monitoring.
Already have an account? Sign in