Social Security Administration Announces Office Closures and Workforce Reductions

Budget cuts led by the Department of Government Efficiency will close 47 offices and reduce SSA staffing by 7,000 positions.

• The Social Security Administration (SSA) plans to close 47 field offices across the U.S., with closures concentrated in the Southeastern states.
• The agency is reducing its workforce by approximately 7,000 employees, aiming to reach a staffing target of 50,000, down from 57,000.
• Closures and workforce reductions are part of cost-cutting measures led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), overseen by Elon Musk.
• Advocates and lawmakers warn that these changes could limit access to critical services for the 72.5 million Americans who rely on Social Security benefits.
• The SSA states that many closures are due to underutilization, with a shift toward virtual hearings reducing the need for in-person facilities.

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