The Social Security Administration (SSA) is experiencing one of its worst crises in decades. Since massive staff cuts were implemented, thousands of retirees and vulnerable citizens are facing delays that put their survival at risk.
There are people who've been waiting for months for a payment that is, literally, their only income. There are no signs that the situation will improve soon.
Less staff, more chaos
Everything began last February, when the government decided to cut 12% of SSA's workforce. That's about 7,000 fewer workers.
The cut was ordered by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an agency created by Elon Musk to eliminate what they call "superfluous expenses." Superfluous expenses that, for many, are actually essential.
The result is clear: collapsed offices, unanswered calls, endless lines, and overwhelmed management. Employees are working at their limit, and they simply can't keep up.
Retirees waiting for months
Jessica LaPointe, president of the AFGE Council 220 union, has publicly denounced the situation. Elderly people are waiting for months for a payment.
People who've contributed all their lives and now can't pay for rent or medication. Every day that passes without them receiving their money is a day of anxiety and uncertainty.
The crisis is affecting thousands of people across the country. There's no efficiency that can make up for it. Not for employees or for users.
Almost the entire country is affected
Between March 2024 and March 2025, 46 states significantly reduced their SSA staff. Only Nebraska and Alaska added a few employees, which is not enough given the magnitude of the problem.
The hardest-hit states include Wyoming (17% less), Montana (14%), West Virginia and Hawaii (11% each), and New Mexico (10%).
But the impact is worse in rural areas and indigenous communities. There, access to offices and the internet was already limited. Today, carrying out a procedure can be almost impossible.
Savings or abandonment?
DOGE defends the cuts, arguing that they're seeking efficiency and cost reduction. However, the reality is different.
The lack of staff isn't efficiency. It's stress for employees and abandonment for citizens. Thousands of people are left without the protection they deserve after a lifetime of contributing to the system.
This crisis makes one thing clear: Social Security can't be sustained with just less staff and more pressure. It's about people. People who've worked all their lives and now feel forgotten.