Social Security has struggled with customer service for years. Declining staffing and funding has seen the Social Security Administration (SSA) leaving District residents in the lurch, dealing with long wait times on the phone and in Social Security offices, getting busy signals on the phone, or sometimes simply being unable to reach anyone for their customer service needs. SSA recently scrapped a proposed service change that would have forced many older District residents to have to go in-person to a Social Security office for routine services that have been handled over the phone.
Throughout 2024, AARP DC continued to advocate for policies to empower District residents to improve their lives and choose where and how they live as they age. AARP DC has a long history of supporting older District residents who want to live independently as they age. This year, AARP DC fought for issues that matter most to seniors, their families and caregivers.
While we’re encouraged that SSA is listening to concerns about customer service, we’re not going to take potential improvements for granted. The incoming Social Security Administrator needs to focus on delivering effective and efficient customer service to everyone who needs access to Social Security.
Several scams rely on convincing a person to deposit a check as a first step of the crime. The scammers then convince their target to use the money in a specific way.
"Life is too short. I thought I had skills that could help others, so I looked for roles where I could make a difference," says Claudia Eckels, whose unwavering volunteer efforts continue to empower AARP Virginia and the broader community
AARP Massachusetts sent a letter to the Ways & Means Committee urging members to fully fund programs and resources for the aging community in the 2026 Fiscal Year budget.