SSA's Public Credentialing and Authentication Process
No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection
No
Regular
09/19/2022
Requested
Previously Approved
01/31/2024
01/31/2024
86,616,828
86,616,828
5,517,849
5,517,849
121,542
121,542
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 an IT Mod Change Request to make non-substantive changes to enhance our system and ensure continued security for our customers. These enhancements include: minor revisions to create clearer pathways for users to create or upgrade accounts to access additional services such as business services; to improve the creation of advanced accounts for these additional services for both Internet and in-person users. Finally we are also making minor revisions to update our Terms of Service language for eAccess and RCS to better accommodate the new enhancements.
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.