The Social Security Administration is preparing to lay off at least 7,000 people from its workforce of 60,000 — and the final reduction in force number could be as high as 50%, according to two people familiar with the agency’s plans who are not authorized to speak publicly.

Summary

The Social Security Administration plans to reduce its workforce by 7,000 to 30,000 employees, potentially reducing its current workforce of 60,000 by up to 50%.

The agency plans “significant workforce reductions,” reassignments, and voluntary separations. Office leases in multiple states are already being terminated.

Critics warn this will severely impact service delivery to 72.5 million beneficiaries, causing field office closures and longer wait times.

The move sparks concerns about reduced access to benefits and comes amid existing understaffing and looming funding challenges.

  • @thingAmaBob
    1•6 hours ago

    My boss is retiring and the amount of work they had to do just to get everything setup is insane. They had to take off work so many times just to speak with people in person at the local offices or to do research so that they choose the right medical plan. Luckily they have their wits about them and retirement money from the company. I can’t imagine anyone who is in a less fortunate or less stable situation trying to get any of this done themselves. I know they say you should have 1-2 years of expenses saved up in cash before retirement, but what about those who need it yesterday? The only two questions should be 1)are you X years or older? and 2)are you a citizen of the USA?