AARP Statement Requesting Assurances from the Social Security Administration

AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond issued the following statement related to comments about changes at the Social Security Administration (SSA):

“AARP is hearing from thousands of older Americans confused and concerned about their Social Security payments, the status of Social Security field offices, and inexcusably long wait times on the phone to get their questions answered.

“On behalf of the 68 million Americans receiving their hard-earned Social Security and the 183 million workers paying in to Social Security, AARP is requesting assurances that people can expect to have their questions answered and services delivered in a timely, efficient manner.

“AARP has called on the SSA to improve customer service for decades. It is a matter of basic respect that people should be able to receive timely and correct answers to questions that can irrevocably impact their financial future. We are urging Social Security to be clear on how they are going to improve customer service and make sure the phones are being answered by fully trained representatives who can accurately answer Americans' questions.

“Americans earned their Social Security through a lifetime of hard work with the promise that it will be there for them when they retire. It is the primary source of income for most older Americans, and nearly one in five rely on it for almost all of their income. Its vital role in Americans' lives – and its broad, bipartisan support – cannot be overstated.

“AARP wants to work with Congressional leaders and the Administration to ensure that Americans get answers, transparency, and assurances that payments will continue to be made on time, customer service needs will be met, and people's data will remain secure.”