Speaking Up for Social Security

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has recently announced significant changes to its operations, including the elimination of some over-the-phone application services, workforce reductions, and the closure of many regional offices. These changes are expected to impact nearly one in five MN residents who receive Social Security benefits, particularly the 37 percent of individuals aged 65 and older who rely on the program for at least half of their income.

We are hearing from thousands of older Americans who are concerned and confused about these changes. Many are asking critical questions: Will Social Security continue to make the payments they’ve earned? Will claims be processed on time? Will they have access to the help they need — when they need it?

Here is how AARP is actively working to protect Social Security and address these concerns:

The SSA announced that individuals applying for and receiving Social Security would no longer be able to confirm their identity over the phone, requiring in-person or online verification instead. Following AARP's opposition, the SSA delayed the change by two weeks to April 14. However, this delay is simply not enough. AARP urges the SSA to reconsider its approach, seek public input, and establish a clear communication plan.

AARP has urged Congress to intervene in the cuts to phone services for Social Security recipients. We have sent letters to the Senate Finance and House Ways & Means Committees, advocating for oversight and hearings to prevent harm to older Americans and people with disabilities reliant on Social Security.

AARP encourages its members to contact Congress to emphasize the importance of a responsive Social Security system. In the last few weeks, AARP activists have sent over 2.2 million messages and calls to Congress, highlighting the critical need for a system that meets the needs of its beneficiaries.

On February 27, the SSA announced a 12% workforce reduction and significant field office cuts. Staffing levels at the agency are already at historic lows, contributing to a customer service crisis of long waits on calls to the SSA's helpline and delays in disability decisions. AARP continues to call for improved customer service and timely responses that impact Americans' financial security.

In response to staff cuts and growing member concerns about payment delays and data safety, AARP sent a letter to the SSA for answers and emphasized the need for transparency. The SSA acting commissioner committed to improving customer service despite funding challenges.

The impact of these changes is particularly severe for older Americans in rural areas. For example, Social Security recipients in Warroad or Rosseau would have to drive more than 100 miles to offices in Bemidji, Hibbing, or Grand Forks, North Dakota. Similarly, someone in South Haven would have to drive more than two hours to Marshall, and beneficiaries living in Luverne or Worthington would have to drive more than an hour to Marshall, Fairmont, or Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This means that individuals who are still working and need to file for benefits for the first time, or current Social Security recipients who are still working, would be forced to take a day off work and make these commutes merely to fill out paperwork.

AARP's Commitment
AARP has always fought to protect and strengthen Social Security for current and future generations. We will continue working to ensure that hard-working older Americans across the country can access the money they’ve earned when and how they want to. And we won’t stop.

For over 65 years, AARP has been a steadfast advocate for Social Security, and our efforts continue today. Visit aarp.org/SocialSecurity for updates and resource.

Social Security News & Resources

Visit our Social Security webpage for the latest news. Explore our Navigating Social Security hub for answers to both basic and complicated questions about Social Security. AARP’s Social Security Calculator can provide estimates of future benefit payments and information on how to maximize them.