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The Social Security Administration plans to significantly reduce field office visits by 50% next year, raising concerns among advocates about potential closures of vital community service centers. According to an internal document shared with The Associated Press, the agency aims to limit public visits to no more than 15 million in fiscal year 2026, compared to over 31.6 million visits recorded between October 2024 and September 2025.
Field offices have traditionally served as crucial contact points where Americans can receive in-person assistance with retirement and disability benefits, Social Security cards, and other essential services. These locations are particularly important for elderly citizens and those without reliable internet access.
SSA spokesperson Barton Mackey defended the plan, emphasizing that field offices will “always remain our front-line” for serving the approximately 75 million Americans receiving monthly payments and over 330 million Americans with Social Security numbers. Mackey added that under the Trump administration, the agency is “serving more Americans than ever before at quicker speeds,” attributing the shift to technological improvements that allow more citizens to manage their benefits online or by phone.
The reduction strategy comes amid significant staffing cuts, with at least 7,000 SSA workers laid off this year as part of the administration’s efforts to streamline services. Earlier in 2023, the agency partially walked back a controversial plan requiring beneficiaries unable to use online portals to verify their identities in person at field offices after facing backlash from lawmakers and the public.
Labor representatives are expressing serious concerns about the impact on vulnerable populations. Jessica LaPointe, a union leader representing 30,000 Social Security workers through the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), stressed the importance of maintaining physical offices for people without technological resources. She accused the SSA of attempting to “allow AI and the internet to replace a well-trained, well-vetted workforce.”
The effects of reduced staffing are already visible across the country, with several rural field offices closing this year. While the SSA website describes these closures as temporary due to maintenance or facilities issues, the trend has sparked anxiety about permanent reductions in service.
Chris Delaney, a Social Security claims specialist and AFGE Local 3343 president in Hudson, questioned the feasibility of cutting foot traffic. “I cannot imagine how SSA can have a goal of cutting foot traffic when my office is seeing an increase in visitors and a growing aging population reliant on SSA income,” Delaney said. His office typically assists 30 to 60 visitors daily with benefit inquiries.
Delaney highlighted that many people struggle with online verification processes through login.gov, noting that “just because they have a cellphone doesn’t mean they’re capable of creating an online account.”
The 2026 operating plan also aims to improve appointment scheduling, targeting 100% of requested appointments to be scheduled within 30 days, compared to the current rate of 78.3%.
Social Security remains one of America’s most essential and widely supported programs. A January Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll found that two-thirds of U.S. adults believe the country is spending too little on Social Security.
The Trump administration’s approach to overhauling the agency has faced legal challenges. In October, Democracy Forward filed a lawsuit to compel SSA to release public records about service disruptions and policy changes.
LaPointe criticized the administration’s approach, stating, “After executing the largest staffing cuts in the 90-year history of Social Security, they’re trying to deal with a problem they created without any meaningful discussion. What they’re doing is void of public input.”
The proposed changes reflect broader tensions between modernizing government services through technology and maintaining accessible options for all citizens, particularly as America’s population continues to age.
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16 Comments
The reduction in field office visits is concerning, as these locations serve as vital community hubs for many Americans. The SSA should carefully consider the needs of all its constituents before implementing this plan.
Absolutely. Maintaining a strong community presence and accessibility for all should be top priorities for the SSA as they modernize their service delivery.
I’m curious to learn more about the specific technological improvements the SSA is implementing to serve more Americans. Transparency around these changes would help ease concerns about reduced in-person access.
Exactly. The SSA should provide clear details on the new digital tools and how they will maintain high-quality support for those who still prefer or require in-person assistance.
This reduction in field office visits could be a challenge for elderly and low-income Americans who rely on in-person assistance. It will be important for the SSA to ensure accessibility through other channels like online services and telephone support.
Agreed. The SSA must prioritize maintaining accessible services, especially for vulnerable populations. Digitization alone may not be enough to meet all their needs.
This news raises valid worries about the potential impact on elderly and low-income communities. The SSA must ensure equitable access to services, whether through field offices, online portals, or other channels.
Agreed. Accessibility and inclusivity should be top priorities as the SSA modernizes its service delivery model.
It’s encouraging to hear the SSA is serving more Americans than ever before, but the reduction in field office visits raises concerns about how this will affect in-person assistance and community engagement.
Exactly. The SSA should provide robust data and transparent communication to demonstrate how they will maintain high-quality service across all delivery channels.
This is a significant shift in the SSA’s service model. While technology can improve efficiency, the agency must ensure that vulnerable populations still have access to the in-person support they depend on.
Well said. Balancing digital transformation and human-centric service will be crucial for the SSA as they implement these changes.
While technological advancements can streamline operations, the SSA should be cautious about disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations who may lack reliable internet access or digital literacy.
Good point. The SSA must carefully consider the needs of all its constituents, especially those who may face barriers to using online services.
While technology can improve efficiency, the SSA should be cautious about over-relying on it. Face-to-face interactions are still critical for many individuals navigating complex Social Security programs and benefits.
Good point. Balancing digital transformation with human-centered services will be key to ensuring no one falls through the cracks.