The Social Security Administration (SSA) is experiencing challenges because of cost-cutting efforts led by Elon Musk's DOGE team. The SSA plans to cut up to 12% of its workforce, close several offices, and offer early retirement payouts to employees. These plans could destabilize the program that supports millions of people. Current and former officials warn that these cuts could lead to system collapses, increased wait times, and disruptions in benefit payments. The agency's aging technology, which relies on programming languages from the 1970s, further intensifies these concerns.
Social Security is vital for many Americans, especially those over 65, who rely on these benefits for a significant portion of their income. Nearly 9/10 people in this age group receive Social Security, with about 30% of their income coming from these benefits. The SSA's aging technology and loss of experienced staff pose a large risk in the continuity of services. Critics liken the approach to a destructive strategy, similar to Musk's actions at Twitter, where established systems are dismantled without a clear plan for improvement. The White House has assured that benefits themselves will not be cut, but the delivery and administration of these benefits are at risk due to the ongoing restructuring efforts.
Read the article here: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/17/business/social-security-doge-ssa.html
1 comment:
You highlight an important issue with the SSA’s restructuring. Cutting staff and closing offices could seriously impact millions who rely on these benefits, especially with outdated technology already causing delays. While cost cutting may be necessary, doing it without a clear improvement plan feels reckless.
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