Social Security Earthquake: When the SSA opens its website 24/7, people who already get Social Security payments will be able to do more things online. They can change their direct deposit information, print their benefit letters, or get tax forms anytime they want. People who are still waiting for their benefits or thinking about applying will also be able to check the status of their claims or look at their estimated payments, even for their spouse.
This is especially helpful for seniors who don’t always go online themselves. Some of them rely on their kids, grandkids, or paid helpers to go online and manage their accounts. Drew Powers, who runs Powers Financial Group, said, “Currently, there are late-night and weekend hours when the portal is closed. Many elderly beneficiaries rely on family or service providers to make online updates, so the expanded service hours will only help those who are helping our seniors.”
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The SSA is also working on other changes, not just the website. A lot of their offices now have better phone systems, and they’ve been answering more calls faster. According to the SSA, about 70% of their field offices have new phone systems now, and people calling the SSA’s 800 number are getting help quicker. The SSA says they have cut wait times by 35% compared to last year. Around 90% of calls now get help either through automated systems or by scheduling call-backs.
Frank Bisignano, the SSA’s commissioner, said, “The American people have waited long enough for better service. And they deserve the absolute best from their government. I am deeply grateful to our dedicated employees who are already making this turnaround a reality.”
Bigger Worries
While the 24/7 website is a big step, there are still big problems that Social Security faces. The number of people needing help keeps going up, especially because of the aging Baby Boomer generation. That puts more pressure on SSA staff and their systems. There have been issues with fewer employees, slower claim approvals, and frustration among both workers and people who need help.
Also, many people worry about the future of Social Security money itself. Right now, experts say the Social Security trust fund could run out by 2033 if Congress doesn’t act. That means the government might not be able to pay full benefits unless new laws are made to fix the system. So even with improvements to the website and customer service, there’s still a need for bigger changes to keep the program going strong.
