The Social Security Administration's citizen authentication process enables a new user experience and access to more electronic services. Authentication is the foundation for secure, online transactions. Identity authentication is the process of determining, with confidence, that someone is who he or she claims to be during a remote, automated session. It comprises three distinct factors: something you know, something you have, and something you are. Single-factor authentication uses one of the factors, and multi-factor authentication uses two or more of the factors. Social Security's process features credential issuance, account management, and single- and multi-factor authentication. We allow our users to maintain one User ID, which consists of a self-selected Username and Password, to access multiple Social Security electronic services. This process provides the means for authenticating users of Social Security's sensitive electronic services and streamlines access to those services. The respondents are individuals who choose to use the Internet or Automated Telephone Response System to conduct business with SSA.
This is a non-substantive change to update the RCS system to allow for a higher level of identity verification remotely so we can alleviate the need for in-person transactions, as we cannot currently conduct them during the COVID-19 national emergency.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.