The US Social Security Administration (SSA) is set to cut its workforce by 7,000 employees, from 57,000 to 50,000 staff, as part of a massive reorganization aimed at reducing costs. Former agency commissioner Martin O’Malley has warned beneficiaries to prepare for potential delays in service and benefits due to the staffing cuts.
O’Malley expressed concerns that the cuts will impact customer service, potentially leading to delays and interruptions of benefits for those who rely on Social Security or Disability. He advised beneficiaries to set aside money to deal with any disruptions.
The SSA is also reducing its regional office structure from 10 to four regions as part of the reorganization. The agency claims this move will streamline management and reduce costs, but opponents argue that it will lead to delays in service for customers.
O’Malley pointed out that during his tenure, customer call wait times dropped dramatically, from an average of 42.5 minutes to just 11.5 minutes. He warned that the current staffing levels are already at a record low and that the cuts will exacerbate the problem.
The Social Security Administration has never missed a payment since its inception in 1940. However, with the Trump administration’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) initiative aimed at eliminating waste, some experts fear that the agency is being dismantled from within.
Source: https://www.marketwatch.com/story/worried-about-social-security-staff-cuts-put-money-aside-now-the-agencys-former-director-says-86fedc04