Trump-era Social Security cuts delay disability benefits for millions

The Social Security Administration eliminated more than 7,100 jobs—a reduction of over 13% of its workforce—the largest staff cut in the agency’s history. The downsizing included closing six of its ten regional offices, consolidating services, and expanding artificial‑intelligence tools for phone lines and online processing.

Researchers from California State University, Sacramento, Binghamton University and the University of Wisconsin‑Madison reported that the cuts have caused longer wait times, reduced phone support, and a lack of transparency after the agency removed key performance metrics. Advocates interviewed described cases “stuck in purgatory” because there are insufficient staff to process claims.

The agency administers disability benefits to roughly 16 million Americans through Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance. The staffing reductions, combined with policy swings such as a brief ban on phone applications, have made it harder for applicants to receive benefits, threatening the financial security of vulnerable retirees, survivors and disabled workers.