In a controversial move aimed at cutting costs and revamping government services, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—led by billionaire Elon Musk—has announced the closure of dozens of Social Security Administration (SSA) offices across the U.S.
The decision, framed as a step toward streamlining operations, could leave thousands of Americans struggling to access essential services like benefits applications, tax assistance, and disability support.
SSA Offices Closing Across Key States
According to DOGE’s official website, leases for 47 SSA offices are set to expire, meaning many communities—especially in politically significant states—will lose their local Social Security centers.
Affected states include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Ohio, and Texas, among others. While some residents may still have nearby alternatives, others could face longer commutes and extended wait times for in-person assistance.
Full List of SSA Office Closures
The following locations are set to lose their SSA offices:
Alabama
- Anniston, Cullman, Gadsden, Jasper
Arkansas
- Forrest City, Texarkana, Jonesboro, Batesville
California
- Carlsbad
Colorado
- Grand Junction
Florida
- Melbourne
Georgia
- Columbus, Gainesville, Vidalia, Brunswick, Thomasville
Illinois
- Rockford
Kentucky
- Campbellsville, Hazard
Louisiana
- Houma
Michigan
- Okemos
Mississippi
- Grenada, Greenwood, Meridian
Montana
- Missoula, Kalispell
Nevada
- Las Vegas
New York
- Horseheads, Poughkeepsie, White Plains
North Carolina
- Elizabeth City, Franklin, Greenville, Roanoke Rapids
North Dakota
- Minot
Ohio
- Mansfield, Columbus
Oklahoma
- Lawton
South Carolina
- Greenwood
Tennessee
- Nashville
Texas
- Nacogdoches, Abilene, Victoria
West Virginia
- Logan
Wisconsin
- Green Bay, Wausau
Wyoming
- Rock Springs
How Will These Closures Affect Social Security Services?
With 1,230 SSA field offices in operation as of 2023, shutting down 47 locations may seem minor on paper. However, the impact will be significant for thousands of Americans, particularly those who depend on in-person assistance for:
- Applying for Social Security benefits
- Reporting a death to stop payments
- Navigating the disability benefits process
- Getting help with annual tax filings
The SSA serves around 120,000 people daily, so even a small reduction in offices could lead to longer wait times and limited access—especially for those without reliable internet or transportation.
What’s Next for SSA Services Under DOGE?
Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency has positioned itself as a force for modernization, but its long-term plans for SSA services remain uncertain.
While DOGE has emphasized a shift toward digitization and automation, critics worry that phasing out in-person assistance could disproportionately harm seniors and low-income individuals who struggle with online systems.
