Thousands Face Longer Waits As Social Security Offices Close—See The Affected Locations

Many are concerned about the accessibility of social security services as the Social Security Administration faces office closures. As of Feb. 26, several locations have been closed or consolidated due to budget cuts and a federal push for streamlining government operations. 

These changes, made by President Donald Trump's administration and the Department of Government Efficiency, have left many beneficiaries wondering how these closures will impact their access to important services. 

Why Are Offices Closing? 

The federal government has initiated widespread efforts to reduce operational costs, led by DOGE, including terminating leases for 7,500 federal buildings, some of which are used by the SSA, according to Newsweek. Already struggling with staffing shortages, the SSA's closures may worsen delays for beneficiaries. 

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Former SSA Commissioner Martin O'Malley testified to Congress last year the agency would be serving 7 million more beneficiaries with considerably less staff by the end of 2024. He also warned that the SSA can't "keep doing more with less" while budget constraints force the agency to its lowest staffing level in 25 years. 

Which Locations Are Affected?

The following Social Security offices have either closed or are in the process of closing:

• White Plains, New York
• Logan, West Virginia
• Carlsbad, California
• Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina
• Batesville, Arkansas
• Columbus, Ohio
• Okemos, Michigan
• Nacogdoches, Texas
• Green Bay, Wisconsin
• Las Vegas

While some offices have been consolidated or reassigned to new locations, the closures are expected to lead to longer wait times and more difficulty for beneficiaries trying to access services. 

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Concerns For Travel and Disabled Beneficiaries

The closures and consolidation of offices raise particular concerns for individuals with disabilities. As Mary Ellen O’Connor, founder of O’Connor Law PLLC, told Newsweek these individuals often rely on accessible, local offices to receive support. For many, traveling long distances or navigating online systems is not a viable option.

“Disabled individuals seeking benefits face unique obstacles,” O’Connor said. “Many rely on local, accessible offices and personalized support, and the move to remote hearings and longer travel distances creates extra barriers.”

These challenges are particularly pronounced for people with limited transportation options, those who require special accommodations, and those struggling with digital literacy. While online hearings may be helpful for some, O’Connor emphasized that they are not suitable for everyone, especially those with hearing or visual impairments.

The changes have sparked concern among lawmakers as well. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) York, sent a letter to the SSA regarding the closure of the White Plains office. 

“As the only hearing office in the lower Hudson Valley region, its closure will

negatively impact thousands of constituents who reside in these seven counties,” Gillibrand wrote. "If SSA does not open an alternative site, beneficiaries will be required to travel between 24 and 135 miles to be serviced by the closest offices." 

She also noted that travel costs and time would significantly increase, creating hardship for many.

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What Happens Next?

With these closures, it's essential for beneficiaries to stay informed about any changes to their local offices. The SSA has advised individuals to check their website for updates and to consider using online services where possible. 

For beneficiaries who rely on in-person support, alternatives may not always be available. The SSA is also grappling with a reduced workforce and increasing backlogs. The agency is working to ensure that services continue, but the closures and staff shortages may lead to delays in processing claims and handling cases.

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