Social Security Phone Service Cuts Considered Under Musk-Led Federal Efficiency Push

The Department of Government Efficiency has proposed eliminating phone-based Social Security services, raising concerns over access for elderly and disabled Americans.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is weighing a proposal to end its phone services for claims processing and direct-deposit transactions, potentially shifting to online and in-person channels only.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, is pressuring the SSA to make cuts as part of efforts to address alleged fraud, though evidence of widespread fraud is minimal according to agency data.
Critics warn the proposed change could severely disrupt public access to Social Security benefits, particularly for elderly and disabled individuals who rely on phone support due to limited internet access or mobility challenges.
Approximately 40% of Social Security claims are currently handled by phone, and the toll-free number received over 80 million calls in 2023, highlighting the critical role of this service for beneficiaries.
SSA staff and former officials have expressed concerns that DOGE's decisions are being made without sufficient understanding of the agency’s operations and could lead to significant service disruptions.