The U.S. government has been shutdown for quite a while now and it’s causing major disruptions throughout the country, especially on Social Security. There are millions of Americans who rely on Social Security as their financial backbone and it’s important that the program remains sustained for those who need it.
The local Social Security Administration (SSA) field offices are operating on minimal staff and this means that people are experiencing longer wait times for assistance. Even though offices are open, people are barely getting help.
What’s Still Working
The SSA is handling essential problems. You can still get help with things like:
- Applying for or appealing Social Security benefits
- Updating your personal information
- Reporting a death
- Verifying citizenship
- Requesting critical or replacement payments
These are considered “essential services”.
What’s Not Working
As a result of the reduced staff in certain field offices, some services are currently unavailable. In simple terms, it means that even though your local field office may be open, there are certain things they can and can’t do:
Right now, the following services are not available in person:
- You are unable to replace Medicare cards.
- Cannot request for proof of income or benefit letters.
- You cannot make changes to your earnings record.
Making use of your online Social Security account will serve you well in these circumstances.
Offices Are Open — But Almost Empty
Going to a Social Security field office now, won’t feel the same. This is simply because of the reduced staff who are struggling to keep up with the workload.
People are reporting longer lines, shorter office hours, and fewer appointments. In some places, staff are handing out flyers directing people to the website instead of helping them in person.
Not only are these staff reductions inconvenient, but they may have detrimental effects. Individuals who depend on Social Security for disability benefits, housing assistance, or medical verification frequently require prompt assistance. Missed rent payments, past-due bills, or loss of coverage might result from delays.
Online Services Help — But Not for Everyone
By making use of your online Social Security account, you can:
- Request a benefit verification letter
- Make changes to your personal details such as your address and banking information
- Apply for benefits
- Replace a Social Security card
The downside to this is that not many may be able to use the site. There are many seniors who rely on Social Security but are not familiar with technology and others may not have internet access as a result of living in rural areas.
The Shutdown’s Ripple Effect: COLA Delay
Unfortunately, the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) announcement has also been delayed as a result of the shutdown. The SSA uses data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to calculate the COLA, however this has been delayed as a result of the shutdown. On Friday, October 24, it was finally announced that the COLA would increase by 2.8% in 2026.
This simply means that retirees have to wait longer to find out how much their Social Security benefits will increase next year. This becomes especially difficult because people find it difficult to plan their finances without knowing how much they will receive.
The Bigger Picture
Many experts are concerned that the Social Security systems is becoming more and more fragile. The government needs to prioritize Social Security staffing and funding as soon as operations resume.
Unfortunately, even though Social Security offices may be open, it may be difficult to get assistance as a result of reduced staff. Beneficiaries may experience longer wait times, suspended services and delayed announcements.
As it stands, beneficiaries are urged to make use of the Social Security online website. Even when operations resume, expect delays as staff try to find momentum again.