Most Americans are served in some way by the Social Security Administration (SSA), and each will have to adjust to a new reality as SSA offices close, the number of employees is reduced, and rule changes are implemented. Here’s what you need to know about the latest changes and what you can do to make it easier on yourself.

Office closures and staffing cuts

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has announced the closure of 47 Social Security offices, with 26 set to shutter this year. In addition, 7,000 of the SSA’s 57,000 employees are expected to be terminated.

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While the SSA has been referred to as “bloated,” consider this: In 2015, the agency had 7,000 more employees servicing 7 million fewer beneficiaries than it does today. In fact, it is currently at a 25-year staffing low.

States with the greatest number of announced closures are Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, North Carolina, Texas, New York, and Mississippi. Even if you don’t live in one of these states, you should count on interactions with the SSA taking longer. Whether you need to file for a Social Security card for a newborn child, enroll in Medicare, or apply for Social Security benefits, the process will likely be more time-consuming.

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Curtailed access to phone services

At the request of the White House, the SSA is also cutting phone services. The wait times may be lengthy if your business with SSA involves calling an office. Add that to limited, appointment-only in-person meetings, and obtaining information about benefits, coverage, and enrollment will likely be delayed.

According to the Medicare Rights Center, closures and staff cuts are expected to impact SSA customer service negatively. In-person appointments will be more challenging to schedule, and many people will have to travel much farther to visit their closest SSA office. For example, due to the planned closure of the White Plains, New York, office, anyone needing in-person assistance will have to drive up to 135 miles to find an office. For those without transportation or who are disabled, finding a way to an SSA office may be difficult, if not impossible.

What you can do: Expect slower response times from the SSA and do your best to plan ahead. For example, if you’re applying for Medicare or some other benefit, don’t wait until the last minute to schedule an appointment.

New rules regarding identity proofing

According to the SSA, it’s strengthening its process to prove identity in relation to direct deposits. If you’re applying for benefits for the first time or you’ve changed banks and need to let the SSA know where to send your checks, you’ll need to take extra steps to prove your identity.

The first and easiest method is to go to your personal my Social Security (mySSA) account. If you don’t already have an account, set one up now. mySSA provides a wealth of information regarding your expected benefits and can help you plan for retirement. Chances are you’ll be able to prove your identity through the portal, but if you can’t, you must provide proof of identity in person at an SSA office.

What you can do: If you don’t already have an account, set one up at my Social Security. Take the required steps to provide proof of identity. If it can’t be completed online, schedule an appointment at your nearest SSA office.

Increase in maximum taxable earnings

In 2024, the maximum taxable earnings for Social Security taxes were $168,600. In other words, Americans were only required to pay Social Security taxes on the first $168,600 of income. Anything beyond that amount was free from the tax.

In 2025, the minimum taxable earnings have increased to $176,100.

What you can do: Let’s say you typically meet the maximum taxable earnings threshold by September, and for the last few months of the year, put the savings toward holiday gifts. For 2025, budget for Social Security taxes deeper into the year.

There is some good news. Although changes to SSA are expected to make it more difficult for many to apply for benefits, those currently receiving checks should not face disruptions.

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