Social Security at a Crossroads: What You Should Know and What You Can Do

chuck - Fotolia

For nearly 90 years, Social Security has served as the bedrock of retirement security in the United States. Nearly 67 million Americans rely on its benefits — retirees, people with disabilities, survivors and dependents alike. But today, the program is under extraordinary strain. Budget shortfalls, rising demand and administrative challenges are converging in ways that threaten both its integrity and accessibility.

A system stretched thin
Despite growing demand, the Social Security Administration’s operating budget has declined by nearly 17 percent over the past decade, when adjusted for inflation. At the same time, the agency has lost more than 6,000 employees, even as the number of Americans reaching retirement age continues to grow. The result is a system pushed to its administrative limits, with long wait times, reduced access to in-person support and fewer available staff to guide individuals through the process.

Closures create access barriers
Since 2010, more than 65 SSA field offices have closed — many of them in rural or underserved areas. These closures have created serious gaps in access, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges, limited internet service or transportation barriers. People who once relied on walk-in assistance are now navigating complex systems alone or waiting weeks or months for help.

Digital tools don’t work for everyone
As part of efforts to modernize operations and reduce costs, the SSA has moved many of its services online. For some, this digital access is a welcome convenience. But for others — particularly older adults, people with disabilities or individuals with limited digital literacy — it creates new barriers. Applying for benefits, updating records or resolving errors is now often done online, even when in-person help might be more appropriate or accessible.

Keeping personal information safe
SSA’s information systems face increasing cybersecurity threats. As more services move online and more personal data is stored digitally, the risk of identity theft, data breaches and fraud grows. Protecting the privacy and security of millions of beneficiaries must be a top priority as modernization efforts continue.

Delays in disability decisions have real consequences
The challenges extend far beyond retirement benefits. Millions of Americans depend on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), yet face wait times that can stretch for months — and in some cases, over a year. These delays leave many without income or medical support during some of the most vulnerable times of their lives. For those living paycheck to paycheck, a gap in benefits isn’t just an inconvenience — it can lead to housing instability, worsening health outcomes and emotional distress.

New in-person mandates create added strain
Recent policy changes have introduced new hurdles. In-person identity verification is now being required for certain applicants and service requests. While intended to prevent fraud, these requirements present serious challenges for individuals who cannot easily travel to a field office — whether due to disability, lack of transportation or geographic isolation. Combined with office closures and appointment backlogs, these mandates may unintentionally shut out the very people the system is designed to serve.

A program worth protecting
Social Security has been one of the most successful anti-poverty programs in American history. It has kept tens of millions of people — especially older adults — from falling into poverty and has provided stability to generations of Americans. But it cannot sustain its mission without proper investment, modern infrastructure and fair access for all.

Everyone has a role to play
This program was built by workers, for workers — and it should work for everyone. That includes people with disabilities, rural families, survivors, dependents and all of us aging into retirement. We each have a voice in shaping its future.

Staying informed, sharing accurate information and holding institutions accountable for fair, accessible service is something we can all do. Members can continue to ask questions, report barriers and raise their voices when the system falls short. Together, we can protect the integrity of Social Security — not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.