A newly uncovered Trump memo suggests the administration is pushing forward with sweeping changes to the Social Security system that could make it significantly harder for Americans to apply for and receive benefits.
The internal Social Security Administration (SSA) memo, obtained by Popular Information, outlines new identity verification requirements that could delay claims processing, force tens of thousands of seniors and disabled individuals to visit SSA offices in person, and even lead to a loss of benefits for some recipients.
The changes, which were detailed in a March 13 memo from acting Deputy Commissioner Doris Diaz, come as part of a broader Trump administration effort—under the direction of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—to reduce alleged “fraud risks” in Social Security.
Critics, however, warn that the new rules will unnecessarily burden some of the most vulnerable Americans—especially low-income retirees, people with disabilities, and seniors without internet access—by making it more difficult to verify their identity and access their Social Security benefits.
Trump Memo Outlines New Hurdles for Social Security Applicants
Currently, Americans can apply for Social Security benefits over the phone, with identity verification handled by trained SSA employees using personal information, tax records, and medical documentation.
But under the Trump memo’s proposed policy, individuals applying for Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) over the phone will now need to verify their identity through an internet-based system.
If an applicant cannot verify their identity online, they must visit an SSA field office in person before their claim can proceed.
The memo estimates that between 75,000 and 85,000 applicants will be required to make in-person visits to SSA offices under the new system.
Some Social Security Administration office locations require more than a month for an appointment and many are more than 100 miles away from the rural claimants.
The new policy disproportionately affects seniors and disabled individuals, many of whom lack reliable internet access or face mobility challenges.
“This is a blatant attempt to make it harder for Americans to access their Social Security benefits,” said a former SSA official. “The Trump administration is using ‘fraud prevention’ as an excuse to create obstacles for people who depend on these benefits the most.”
How Social Security Cuts Are Making the Situation Worse
The Trump memo’s proposed verification system comes at a time when massive Social Security cuts are already straining the agency’s ability to serve the public.
The SSA recently announced a reduction of 7,000 employees, cutting nearly 12% of its workforce.
SSA field offices are closing across the country, making it even harder for people to access services in person.
Phone service was reportedly under consideration for elimination before public outcry forced the SSA to reconsider.
With fewer employees, fewer offices, and increased demand, these cuts will further delay claims processing and increase the likelihood that eligible Americans will lose benefits due to bureaucratic barriers.
“The SSA was already understaffed and overburdened before these cuts,” said a Social Security advocate. “Now, with fewer workers and more in-person requirements, this memo is setting up a crisis where thousands of people will be unable to access their benefits.”
Could These Changes Lead to Social Security Payment Delays?
One of the biggest concerns surrounding the Trump memo’s Social Security changes is whether they could cause delays in Social Security payments.
If applications take longer to process due to in-person verification requirements, new beneficiaries may face extended wait times before receiving their first Social Security payment.
Current recipients who need to update their banking information or personal details may face disruptions in receiving payments.
If SSA offices cannot accommodate the influx of required in-person visits, claims processing times will increase—possibly delaying benefits for thousands.
Even a short delay in Social Security payments could have devastating consequences, particularly for low-income retirees and people with disabilities who depend on these funds for rent, food, and medical expenses.
A recent survey found that 42% of Americans age 65 and older would struggle to afford necessities if their Social Security payment was delayed even for a few weeks.
Is This a Backdoor Attempt to Cut Social Security?
While the Trump administration claims these changes are aimed at reducing fraud, critics argue that the new policies are part of a larger effort to undermine Social Security.
Elon Musk, a major figure in the DOGE initiative, has called Social Security a ‘Ponzi scheme’ and has pushed for privatization. House Republicans have floated proposals to raise the retirement age and reduce benefits for some recipients. The Republican Study Committee has long advocated for cuts to Social Security, despite public opposition.
The Trump memo’s policy changes—along with staff reductions and office closures—suggest that these efforts may already be underway.
“They know they can’t cut Social Security outright because it’s too popular,” said a policy expert. “Instead, they’re trying to make it so difficult to access that people simply give up on claiming the benefits they’ve earned.”
What Social Security Recipients Should Do Now
✔ Check your mySocialSecurity account at SSA.gov – If you need to make changes to your Social Security records, do so before these new verification requirements take effect.
✔ If you need to apply for benefits, start the process as soon as possible – Given the likelihood of delays, waiting until you need benefits could leave you without income for months.
✔ Contact your elected representatives – Let them know that you oppose policies that make it harder for Americans to access Social Security.
📢 For assistance, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit a field office before the new requirements are fully implemented.
Takeaways: How the Trump Memo Could Impact Social Security
✔ The Trump administration’s memo outlines new policies that will make it harder for Americans to apply for Social Security benefits.
✔ Phone-based claims may now require online identity verification—or in-person visits for those unable to use the internet.
✔ SSA is already facing massive staffing cuts, making it even harder for claimants to receive timely assistance.
✔ Delays in processing could lead to Social Security payment disruptions, affecting millions of beneficiaries.
✔ Critics argue that these changes are part of a broader effort to undermine Social Security benefits.
This content is brought to you by the FingerLakes1.com Team. Support our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/fl1 or learn how you send us your local content here.
