Social Security staffing issues make wait times longer and customer service poor

The Social Security Administration has been under fire for poor customer service and long wait times, and the issue still persists.

When trying to call the SSA, people are experiencing long wait times.

The pandemic may have played a role, but funds have been being cut for awhile now.

This has resulted in staff cuts and old technology being used.

Unfortunately, some states are suffering more than others, so their residents are too.

Retirement: Can I work and still get Social Security benefits?

Why is the customer service so bad with Social Security?

Data shows that Congress has cut funding by 17% since 2010 for Social Security, according to CNBC.

In response to these budget cuts, field offices closed and staff were cut.

Overall, Social Security staff was reduced by 15% between 2010 and 2021, but some states were hit harder than that.

Ten states across the nation lost over 20% of staff.

These states include

• Alaska
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Louisiana
• Ohio
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin

Unfortunately, four of these states were hit even harder and have lost 25% of their overall Social Security staff.

These states include

• Alaska
• Iowa
• Virginia
• West Virginia

Those who determine SSI eligibility benefits saw a staff decrease of 16% across the nation between 2010 and 2021.

Funding is needed to create a better system where phones are answered faster and claims are processed quicker.

While benefits are one of the things being impacted the most, other services are being impacted as well.

Those in need of a new SSN card from getting married or divorced are seeing longer wait times.