As Elon Musk’s organization, DOGE, targets the Social Security Administration (SSA) for budget cuts and restructuring, the agency has introduced new regulations for benefit recipients, which could lead to significant disruption within its operations.
This week, the SSA announced that new benefit recipients will no longer be able to verify their identities via telephone. Instead, these individuals must use an online ID verification system or visit a local government field office for in-person verification if the digital method is unsuccessful. Similarly, returning recipients wishing to update their direct deposit information must also either navigate the online ID system or make a trip to a field office.
The Social Security Administration stated in a recent press release that it is enhancing its service security by adopting stronger identity verification measures. It clarified that individuals unable to use the online “My Social Security” services can initiate their claims over the phone, but completion of the claims would require in-person identity verification. The agency advises scheduling an in-person appointment to finalize claims efficiently.
The effectiveness of the government’s ID verification software remains uncertain, particularly as a Federal Communications Commission report from the previous year indicates that between 14 and 24 million Americans lack access to broadband. Additionally, an AARP report highlighted that an estimated 42% of older adults, approximately 22 million people, do not have reliable internet access. Many elderly citizens may struggle with online navigation, and a Pew Research survey from 2021 noted that around 25% of Americans aged 65 and older report never using the internet. Consequently, as reported by the Associated Press, the SSA’s policy shift could necessitate that millions of recipients and applicants visit government offices to receive their retirement benefits.
This situation is further complicated as DOGE has also been targeting SSA field offices nationwide for lease termination and closure. Their website indicates that 47 offices across various states, including Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Georgia, Texas, and North Dakota, either have or will have their leases terminated.
Additionally, DOGE has been working toward reducing the SSA’s staffing levels. Reports suggest that the agency’s new DOGE-affiliated director intends to cut the workforce in half in the approaching months. Such a reduction in staff would likely impair the SSA’s capacity to deliver services, particularly at field offices where in-person identity verifications are now required.
A recently surfaced memo suggests that SSA staff are aware of the negative outcomes these new DOGE-driven policies could bring, including increased field office traffic, longer wait times for phone calls, and delayed processing.
The policy changes introduced during Musk’s oversight are consistent with his previously expressed critical view of Social Security, which he has referred to as a “Ponzi scheme.” These developments at Social Security are occurring alongside comments from Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, advocating for the privatization of Social Security. Fink has argued that the current Social Security plan does not grow with the economy and that linking retirement funds to the stock market could provide a more beneficial model for Americans.
