The collaboration between Elon Musk and the Donald Trump administration to optimize federal spending has put key programs such as Social Security and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) under the microscope. SSDI is vital for millions of Americans with disabilities who cannot perform work and earn a living.
Musk’s controversial measures may affect millions, particularly older adults and people with disabilities, who may face reduced services. No direct cuts have been announced.
Musk leading DOGE: How it could affect SSDI disability benefits
Musk, the unofficial leader of DOGE, an initiative created by Trump to cut spending, focuses on identifying “waste and fraud” at the SSA, which administers Social Security and SSDI.
The latter is a program for disabled workers, whereas the former provides retirement benefits through taxes. Both rely on the same agency, so any operational changes would affect both.
The South African tech tycoon claims that there is “$500,000 to $700,000 million in unnecessary spending,” but does not provide evidence.
These statements have sparked criticism from Democratic lawmakers and rights advocates, who believe the fraud narrative justifies restrictions. “It is a dangerous strategy that puts the most vulnerable at risk,” warned a spokesperson from Social Security Works.
While there are no explicit plans to tinker with the SSI program, Musk’s proposed cuts to the SSA could have disastrous consequences for millions of Americans who rely on this money every month.
For instance, SSA cut 7,000 jobs, mostly in non-critical areas, and closed 10 regional offices, leaving only four active. Experts anticipate longer wait times and fewer service channels.
Furthermore, it is being considered to reduce telephone services, which in 2023 handled 80 million calls and 40% of claims. This creates a new barrier for SSDI beneficiaries.
Many people do not have access to the internet and rely on phone support to solve problems; this change would render them helpless. Individuals with physical disabilities may be unable to travel long distances for SSA care.
DOGE cuts to Social Security, “a potential catastrophe”
Acting SSA Chief Leland Dudek described DOGE’s measures as “potentially catastrophic for citizens,” warning of care collapses. In contrast, Trump has stated that “Social Security benefits will not be touched,” despite his support for increased efficiency. This duality leads to uncertainty about the true scope of the changes.
Former officials, such as Martin O’Malley, former SSA commissioner, have been more forceful: “Cutting staff and services could collapse the system in 30 to 90 days,” he stated.
Organizations such as AARP and The Arc agree that a lack of clarity causes anxiety among beneficiaries, particularly those with cognitive disabilities or limited technological resources.
The debate on fraud in Social Security: myth or reality?
Musk has made controversial claims, such as “millions of deceased people receive benefits,” which are contradicted by official data. The SSA reports that less than 0.5% of payments are errors or fraud, but DOGE claims this figure is higher. This has resulted in aggressive audits, including of already verified cases.
Advocacy groups argue that the emphasis on fraud is a smokescreen. “Most errors are administrative, such as outdated addresses, not organized scams,” said Rebecca Smith, a social policy expert. DOGE’s goal of saving $7 trillion over a decade drives Musk’s strategy forward.
