AARP Hearing Center
Background
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has multiple functions. It processes applications, administers benefits, and operates field offices around the country. SSA also processes many other types of public requests, such as replacing Social Security cards. Funding constraints have damaged SSA’s ability to maintain the quality and breadth of services.
Sufficient funding would allow SSA to invest in new technology to improve program operations and guide program management. In addition, improved research and data analytics could provide information about program integrity, effectiveness, and efficiency.
SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION: Policy
SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION: Policy
Administrative capacity
Congress should allocate sufficient funding to strengthen the administrative capacity of the Social Security Administration (SSA) to better meet the needs of applicants and beneficiaries.
Any additional administrative responsibilities given to SSA must be accompanied by sufficient funding.
Congress should exempt Social Security’s administrative costs from limitations on discretionary appropriations in the federal budget.
Changes to Social Security should be made only to strengthen its ability to provide guaranteed lifetime income, not to reduce the unified budget deficit.
Research and analysis
SSA should collect and report sufficient data to ensure program integrity. The data should allow for research on the impact of Social Security. It also should provide a better understanding of the experience of applicants and beneficiaries. In addition, SSA should collect and publicly report data on race and ethnicity while ensuring beneficiary privacy and security.