Social Security Faces Delays and Exemptions in Controversial Overhaul

The Trump administration has postponed new in-person identity verification rules to April 14 and introduced exemptions for vulnerable groups, but staffing cuts and office closures continue to disrupt services.

The Social Security Administration delayed the implementation of new in-person identity verification policies to April 14 after public backlash and exempted applicants for SSDI, Medicare, and SSI from the requirement.
Critics argue that staff reductions of 7,000 employees and the planned closure of 26 offices have overwhelmed the system, leading to long wait times, website crashes, and service disruptions.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency claims the changes aim to reduce fraud, but critics highlight that Social Security fraud rates are minimal and warn of barriers for seniors and disabled individuals.
Advocacy groups, including AARP, and Democratic leaders have called for a full rollback of the policies, citing fears of privatization and disproportionate impacts on rural and vulnerable populations.
Acting SSA Commissioner Leland Dudek has faced criticism for chaotic policy rollouts, while Republicans express concern over voter backlash as the changes disproportionately affect Republican-leaning rural states.