Social Security's Former Head Warns of Benefit Interruptions Due to DOGE

As the Trump administration continues its efforts to streamline government operations, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by tech billionaire Elon Musk, has set its sights on the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, former SSA Commissioner Martin O'Malley has raised alarm bells, warning that the recent cuts and reorganizations could lead to benefit interruptions for millions of Americans within the next 30 to 90 days.

O'Malley, who served as commissioner from December 2023 to November 2024, expressed his concerns in an interview with CNBC, stating that the current administration's attempts to reduce the workforce will lead to the departure of vital staff and threaten the agency's fundamental operations. He warned that "ultimately, you’re going to see the system collapse and an interruption of benefits," advising people to start saving now (CNBC, 2025).

The recent actions taken by DOGE have raised concerns about the SSA's ability to process and distribute benefits. Here's a closer look at the potential impact of these changes:



1. Significant workforce reductions: DOGE has aimed to reduce the size of the SSA's workforce, with plans to cut it from approximately 57,000 employees to 50,000. This reduction could lead to a shortage of staff, causing disruptions in the agency's operations and potentially leading to benefit interruptions.
2. Access to confidential information: There have been reports of conflicts regarding DOGE's access to confidential information, which may have contributed to the resignation of acting SSA Commissioner Michelle King. This lack of transparency and potential mishandling of sensitive data could compromise the system's integrity and lead to further instability.
3. Consolidation of regional offices: DOGE has announced plans to consolidate regional offices, which could lead to reduced access to services for beneficiaries and further strain the agency's resources.
4. Outdated IT infrastructure: The SSA relies on outdated IT software, including a programming language called COBOL that was first created in 1959. This outdated infrastructure, combined with the exodus of experienced staff, could lead to system failures and benefit interruptions.
5. Elimination of key offices and programs: DOGE has shuttered at least 10 Social Security field offices, eliminated the SSA's Office of Transformation, and the Office of Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity. These closures and eliminations could further disrupt the agency's ability to provide essential services and process benefit claims.

O'Malley's concerns are supported by data and examples from the materials, such as the SSA's reliance on outdated IT infrastructure, the potential exodus of experienced staff, and the significant workforce reductions planned by DOGE. These factors, combined with the agency's already low staffing levels and the elimination of key offices and programs, could lead to a collapse of the Social Security system within the next 30 to 90 days.

As the SSA faces potential disruptions in benefit distribution, it is essential for beneficiaries to stay informed and prepared. While the situation remains fluid, it is crucial to monitor the agency's announcements and updates regarding any changes in benefit processing and distribution. Additionally, beneficiaries should consider exploring alternative income sources or savings options to help mitigate the potential impact of any benefit interruptions.

In conclusion, the recent workforce reductions and reorganization plans at the SSA have raised concerns about the agency's ability to process and distribute benefits. Former SSA Commissioner Martin O'Malley has warned that the actions taken by DOGE could lead to benefit interruptions for millions of Americans within the next 30 to 90 days. As the situation unfolds, beneficiaries should stay informed and prepared for any potential changes in benefit processing and distribution.