President Trump signs bill to assist identity theft victims

President Donald Trump signed the Improving Social Security Service to Victims of Identity Theft Act into law on October 8, 2026. According to the House Committee on Ways and Means, the legislation mandates that the Social Security Administration assign a single point of contact to assist victims navigating issues related to misused Social Security numbers. [1]

The House Committee on Ways and Means reported that Representative David Kustoff, a Republican representing Tennessee's 8th congressional district, introduced the legislation, designated as H.R. 5345. The bill moved through the House Ways and Means Committee before passing Congress and reaching the president's desk. [1]

Under the new law, the assigned official at the Social Security Administration will serve as a dedicated contact to track individual identity theft cases. The measure aims to streamline support for victims who face challenges after someone misuses their personal identification details. [1]

Identity theft involves using another person's identifying details, such as their name or identification number, without permission to commit fraud or gain financial advantages. Victims often suffer adverse consequences, including being held responsible for actions taken by perpetrators. [2]