ID.me and Sterling Launch In-Person Identity Verification Service to Streamline Access to Government Services Nationwide

Rhea-AI Summary

ID.me has launched an in-person identity verification service in partnership with Sterling Check Corp. (STER), aimed at enhancing access for individuals without mobile devices or internet. The service was first adopted by the New Jersey Department of Labor, enabling residents to verify their identities for unemployment benefits. This expansion follows a significant rise in identity theft related to government benefits, increasing by 2,920%. The collaboration seeks to provide secure and easy identity verification across over 650 retail locations in the U.S.

Positive

• Launch of in-person verification service enhances accessibility for individuals without mobile devices.
• Partnership with New Jersey Department of Labor marks a significant step in identity verification for unemployment benefits.
• The service addresses a 2,920% increase in identity theft related to government benefits, contributing to stronger security.
• Access to over 650 retail locations nationwide increases user convenience and service availability.

Negative

• None.

MCLEAN, Va., Nov. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --  ID.me, the leading secure digital identity network used by 64 million individuals, today announced the launch of an in-person identity verification solution in partnership with Sterling Check Corp. (NASDAQ: STER) ("Sterling"), the leading provider of background screening and identity services. The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development is the first government agency to utilize the new service, which allows individuals - even those without a mobile device or dedicated internet access– to verify their identity at retail locations across the United States. New Jersey requires identity verification to obtain unemployment benefits. 

During the pandemic, unemployment reached 14.8% - the highest rate observed since data collection started in 1948, according to the Congressional Research Service. At the same time, the Federal Trade Commission reported identity theft tied to government benefits increased by 2,920%. Given the dual imperative to serve those in need while providing strong security, ID.me and Sterling developed in-person verification to augment digital verification options. 

"In-person verification moves ID.me closer to realizing our goal of 'No Identity Left Behind.' We are punching through deeply embedded structural barriers to meet people where they are and to push the edge for access closer to all individuals," said Blake Hall, founder and CEO of ID.me. "Combined with our self-serve online and video chat processes, today's in-person launch establishes the first secure and omnichannel identity verification process in America."

Robert Asaro-Angelo, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, noted his agency's focus on making sure all residents can access benefits. 

 "We have been focused on delivering equity and accessibility for all New Jersey residents since day one, and this is another tool that allows us to continue with that mission," Asaro-Angelo said. "Enhancing our ability to verify individuals through ID.me with the addition of in-person channels enables us to more effectively reach those who, for whatever reason, had trouble doing so online without compromising trust and security." 

ID.me and Sterling have been on the ground for months fine-tuning this solution with NJDOL, followed by recently completed, successful user testing.

"Sterling is thrilled to partner with ID.me in expanding secure identity verification and proofing and to provide availability for those without a mobile device or dedicated internet access," said Josh Peirez, CEO of Sterling. "Our industry knowledge, innovative technology and relationships with more than 47,000 clients, paired with ID.me's services allow us to increase access to a verified identity."

Sterling's Identity Network spans more than 650 retail facilities in neighborhoods across the U.S., offering background and identity services to a range of companies, including many of the nation's largest financial institutions. Individuals benefit from having access to in-person identity verification in their local communities assisted by trained technicians.

A. McNair, a property manager in New Jersey, was able to complete her verification in person at a retail location close to her home. "The in-person identity verification process was quick and convenient," said McNair, who started receiving benefits after visiting the in-person location.

All potential unemployment claimants must verify their identity before they can receive benefits, per federal law. Verifying the identity of the person applying for benefits is required, and ID.me performs this service for NJDOL. Eligibility for benefits is determined separately.  

ID.me partners can purchase the new in-person identity verification offering to help expand access to secure, easy-to-use identity verification. Once an individual verifies their identity in person, they will never need to verify again. They can then use their ID.me credentials to gain access to other government and commercial services.

Sterling and ID.me are collaborating on additional solutions to strengthen and speed identity verification. The two companies are incubating concepts and working with early customers to make new solutions available in the coming months.

To learn more about ID.me's in-person identity verification vision, visit https://bit.ly/inpersonverification

About ID.me
ID.me simplifies how individuals prove and share their identity online. The ID.me secure digital identity network has 64 million members with over 145,000 new subscribers joining daily, as well as partnerships with 27 states, multiple federal agencies, and over 500 name brand retailers. The company provides identity proofing, authentication and group affiliation verification for organizations across sectors. The company's technology meets the highest federal standards and is approved as a NIST 800-63-3 IAL2 / AAL2 conformant credential service provider by the Kantara Initiative. ID.me is the only provider with video chat and is committed to "No Identity Left Behind" to enable all people to have a secure digital identity. To learn more, visit https://www.ID.me/.

About Sterling
Sterling — a leading provider of background and identity services — offers background and identity verification to help over 47,000 clients create people-first cultures built on a foundation of trust and safety. Sterling's tech-enabled services help organizations across all industries establish great environments for their workers, partners, and customers. With operations around the world, Sterling conducts more than 89 million background checks annually. Visit us at sterlingcheck.com/.

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SOURCE ID.me

FAQ

What is the launch date of the new in-person identity verification by STER?

The new in-person identity verification service was announced on November 19, 2021.

Which department first adopted the in-person identity verification service from STER?

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development is the first government agency to utilize the new service.

How does the in-person verification service help those without technology?

The service allows individuals without mobile devices or dedicated internet access to verify their identity at retail locations.

What significant issue does the STER identity verification service address?

It addresses a 2,920% increase in identity theft tied to government benefits.

What collection of locations does the STER service cover?

Sterling's Identity Network spans more than 650 retail facilities across the United States.