SSA officials were weighing eliminating telephone support for claims processing and direct-deposit account transactions.

The Washington Post published an article (archived) titled "Social Security, facing pressure from DOGE, weighs big cuts to phone service." The story alleged that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative championed by Elon Musk was attempting to push the Social Security Administration (SSA) to cut its telephone service for claims processing and direct deposit transactions.

The Social Security Administration is increasing its protection against fraud by eliminating the risk of fraud associated with changing bank account information by telephone, and requiring people to prove their identities in person or through a two-factor authentication process online.