Social Security is set to make major changes in less than two weeks to combat a tiny fraction of its spending – $100 million out of $1.6 trillion, or 0.00625%. The agency plans to cut phone services, making it harder for people to sign up or change their accounts without ID verification.
Former officials warn that this will overwhelm the agency’s already strained resources and make it more difficult for vulnerable populations like seniors. AARP, which represents nearly 38 million older Americans, has urged Congress to protect phone services and warned that the changes may lead to more fraud.
The Social Security Administration says the goal is to improve customer service, but critics argue this will only open the door to more scams targeting seniors. The agency’s internal documents caution that some people will be cut off from receiving benefits if they don’t adapt to the new system.
The changes take effect on March 31 and will require Americans to use the internet or visit a field office to sign up for or change their accounts. This is not an easy option for many seniors who rely heavily on Social Security.
AARP and several lawmakers have expressed concern about the impact of these changes, with Rep. Jared Moskowitz saying that people are “scared and pissed” about the issue. The White House has not commented on the matter.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/03/20/doge-social-security-deposit-fraud