A recent plan by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, would have forced millions of elderly Social Security recipients to handle their claims online instead of over the phone. After widespread backlash, DOGE quickly reversed its decision. However, the agency is still moving forward with changes to how beneficiaries update their banking information.
DOGE’s Plan to Cut Social Security Phone Services
The Washington Post reported that DOGE had proposed eliminating phone services for people filing Social Security claims. This would have made it harder for elderly and disabled Americans—many of whom don’t have access to computers—to get assistance. Instead, DOGE wanted all claims to be handled online or in person at SSA offices.
According to The Post, DOGE staff weren’t open to alternative solutions when discussing the proposal with Social Security Administration (SSA) officials. They were only interested in defending their decision.
Public Outrage Over the Proposal
The plan was met with fierce criticism from politicians and the public.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her frustration on social media, writing:
“Going after 90-year-old grandmas who can’t drive and don’t have a computer? That’s just low.”
Senator Ed Markey also slammed the proposal, tweeting:
“Gramma and Grampa are already waiting too long for answers about their Social Security. Now, Elon Musk and DOGE want to close field offices and take away their option to use the phone. This is outrageous.”
DOGE Backs Off—But Not Completely
Just hours after The Post’s report, DOGE reversed course and stated that media reports were “inaccurate.” They clarified that phone services for Social Security claims would remain available.
However, one major change is still happening. Starting March 29, SSA customers will no longer be able to change their direct deposit bank account information over the phone. Instead, they must update their banking details online or in person at an SSA office.
DOGE justified this decision by citing fraud concerns. The agency claimed that 40% of Social Security direct deposit fraud happens through phone calls, where scammers trick SSA agents into redirecting payments to fraudulent accounts.
Critics Say the Change Hurts Vulnerable Americans
While DOGE argues that the changes are necessary to prevent fraud, many experts disagree.
Nancy Altman, president of the advocacy group Social Security Works, pointed out that many Americans don’t have reliable internet access.
“A huge number of people don’t have computers,” she said. “Some have only smartphones, and many have limited education or English skills. The goal of Social Security should be to give people choices—not take them away.”
SSA officials have also warned that DOGE’s approach could lead to serious mistakes. Acting SSA Commissioner Leland Dudek admitted that DOGE staff don’t fully understand how the Social Security system works. In a leaked meeting recording, he said:
“DOGE staff will make mistakes, but we have to let them in to see what is going on at SSA.”
What’s Next for Social Security Under DOGE?
DOGE has already announced plans to cut SSA’s workforce from 57,000 to 50,000 employees, calling it an effort to reduce “government bloat.” Meanwhile, Musk has hinted at even more drastic changes, including the possibility of eliminating Social Security and Medicaid altogether—sparking further controversy.
As DOGE continues to reshape federal agencies, many Americans worry that the changes could make it harder for the elderly and disabled to access critical benefits. With pressure mounting, it remains to be seen whether more reversals—or new restrictions—are on the horizon.
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