Social Security Administration to Cut 7,000 Jobs Amid Federal Downsizing Plans

The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) plans to eliminate 7,000 jobs, about 12% of its existing staff. The decision is part of the Trump administration’s overall effort to reduce the size of the federal government. While President Trump assured not cutting Social Security benefits, this reorganization has attracted concern regarding its effect on services.

The SSA, which pays benefits to more than 73 million people, is working towards trimming its staff to 50,000 workers from 57,000. The agency is looking to target reductions in non-core functions as well as employees who do not have direct roles in delivering Social Security benefits. Under the restructuring, the SSA will also shutter six of its ten regional offices reducing the number to four.

This move has raised concern among lawmakers and unions. Rich Couture, an American Federation of Government Employees spokesperson, cautioned that the reductions will hamper the SSA’s capacity to serve American people, particularly as the beneficiary rolls expand with the aging Baby Boomer generation. 

To meet these reductions, the SSA is providing early retirement and voluntary separation incentives, but more layoffs are anticipated. These changes are part of a broader government wide effort, with agencies being told to provide plans for large-scale layoffs by March 13.

Also Read | Akash Ambani Prioritizes Work Quality Over Hours