The Social Security Administration’s Digital Identity Team, led by Program Manager Jeff Walsh, is being honored in Category 2: Delivering Excellence in Digital Services for transforming how millions of Americans securely access their benefits online.

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To protect over $1 trillion in annual benefits and serve 75 million Americans, Jeff led the development of a modernized, equitable digital identity strategy for my Social Security and Business Services Online (BSO). Under his leadership, SSA doubled digital access pass rates, from 40% to nearly 80%, allowing millions more users to securely engage with SSA services online rather than through higher-cost call centers or in-person visits.

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This shift not only expanded secure, user-friendly access for all, including underserved populations, but also unlocked significant operational efficiencies across the agency. SSA’s digital authentication now delivers faster, more inclusive service, improves privacy, and frees up agency resources to support complex cases and reduce customer wait times.