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Social Security Administration

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DOJ flags DOGE actions at SSA as potential policy breaches in Social Security data
politics1 month ago

DOJ flags DOGE actions at SSA as potential policy breaches in Social Security data

DOJ filings say DOGE staff inside the SSA accessed and potentially violated SSA policy by sharing data with affiliates and helping an outside advocacy group analyze voter rolls; the filing also alleges misrepresentations of access to personal data and a DOGE member signing a voter-data agreement. The revelations come amid ongoing battles over DOGE's role, whistleblower complaints, and federal data-security concerns.

Social Security Data Chief Resigns Amid Whistleblower Allegations and Data Concerns
government6 months ago

Social Security Data Chief Resigns Amid Whistleblower Allegations and Data Concerns

The chief data officer of the Social Security Administration resigned after filing a whistleblower complaint alleging that government employees uploaded sensitive Social Security data to a vulnerable cloud environment, which the SSA denies. Borges claimed retaliation and a hostile work environment, and his resignation was described as a constructive discharge amid ongoing privacy and security concerns.

"Social Security Shifts to Login.gov: Update Your Account Now"
social-security1 year ago

"Social Security Shifts to Login.gov: Update Your Account Now"

The Social Security Administration is requiring users who created a my Social Security account before September 18, 2021, to switch to a Login.gov or ID.me account to continue accessing their information. This transition aims to simplify secure sign-ins and reduce wait times for customer service. Approximately 46 million out of 86 million account holders need to make this switch, though no final deadline has been set. Existing Login.gov or ID.me users do not need to take any action.

"Social Security Reduces Overpayment Repayment Requirements for Beneficiaries"
social-security-administration1 year ago

"Social Security Reduces Overpayment Repayment Requirements for Beneficiaries"

The Social Security Administration has announced a significant change in its overpayment recovery policy, reducing the amount beneficiaries must pay back. Instead of automatically withholding 100% of overpaid amounts, the agency will now collect 10% or $10, whichever is greater, from recipients' monthly benefits. Exceptions will be made for cases involving fraud. This change aims to make the overpayment policies fair and equitable, addressing concerns about recipients facing financial hardship. Additionally, the agency is reviewing its procedures and policies following criticism and reports of deficiencies in internal controls regarding overpayments.

"Social Security Commissioner's Plan to End Benefit Overpayment 'Clawback Cruelty'"
social-security-administration1 year ago

"Social Security Commissioner's Plan to End Benefit Overpayment 'Clawback Cruelty'"

Social Security Commissioner Martin O'Malley has unveiled a new plan to address overpayment issues, including reducing the default withholding rate from 100% to 10% for beneficiaries who do not respond to repayment notices, shifting the burden of proof away from claimants, extending repayment plan timeframes, and making it easier for beneficiaries to request waivers. O'Malley also highlighted plans to address long wait times for service and a backlog in disability benefit applications, calling for additional funding from Congress to address the agency's customer service crisis.

"Double Social Security Payments Arrive for Eligible Americans This Week"
social-security-administration2 years ago

"Double Social Security Payments Arrive for Eligible Americans This Week"

Due to a scheduling quirk, some Americans will receive two Social Security payments this week, with roughly 7.4 million SSI recipients getting their March payments early on March 1. This is not extra money, but an early payment for the following month. Many retirees are struggling financially due to high inflation, with concerns over rising costs for necessities like food, rent, and medical care. The modest 3.2% cost-of-living increase this year has left many dissatisfied, leading some to consider seeking employment.

Martin O'Malley appointed to lead Social Security Administration by Senate
politics2 years ago

Martin O'Malley appointed to lead Social Security Administration by Senate

Former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley has been confirmed as the commissioner of the Social Security Administration, ending a two-year leadership drought. O'Malley's appointment comes after President Biden ousted Trump appointee Andrew Saul from the post in 2021. The agency has faced challenges such as long wait times, a backlog of disability determinations, and chronic underfunding. O'Malley aims to modernize the organization, improve collaboration, and enhance efficiency. Despite initial Republican opposition, O'Malley received support from three Republican senators. He plans to prioritize the needs of beneficiaries and the agency's workforce.

"Social Security Official Criticizes Lauren Boebert for 'Unacceptable' Actions"
politics2 years ago

"Social Security Official Criticizes Lauren Boebert for 'Unacceptable' Actions"

Rep. Lauren Boebert faced criticism from an executive counselor for the Social Security Administration (SSA) during a House Oversight Committee hearing. Boebert accused the SSA of allowing "delinquent employees to sit on their sofas at home" instead of working, but the counselor explained that employees' performances are monitored and they are required to be accessible during work hours. Boebert further questioned the increase in backlogs for Social Security applicants, to which the counselor attributed to historical underfunding and low staffing levels.

Lauren Boebert's Funding Dispute: A Math Problem or Claims Backlog Tussle?
politics2 years ago

Lauren Boebert's Funding Dispute: A Math Problem or Claims Backlog Tussle?

During a hearing on post-pandemic telework policies, Rep. Lauren Boebert clashed with Oren "Hank" McKnelly, an executive counselor at the Social Security Administration, over funding and work-from-home policies. Boebert accused employees of being "delinquent" and not doing their jobs, to which McKnelly defended their efficiency and explained the monitoring systems in place. When Boebert questioned the increase in backlogs for Social Security applicants, McKnelly attributed it to historical underfunding and a lack of staff to handle the increasing workloads.