Social Security Changes to Impact Republican States the Most

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Source: Newsweek

Published Mar 28, 2025 at 4:49 PM EDT | Updated Mar 28, 2025 at 10:42 PM EDT


The Social Security Administration (SSA) is making a major change to its services that could impact Republican states the most. Newsweek reached out to the Social Security Administration via email for comment.

Why It Matters

Nearly nine in 10 Americans over the age of 65 are earning monthly Social Security payments, which often make up a substantial portion of their retirement income. The SSA announced that it would end phone identity verification services on March 31 but has postponed the change to April 14 after backlash from seniors who've relied on the practice. This could significantly impact seniors living in rural areas, with a higher number living in Republican states.

What To Know

Individuals looking to apply for Social Security benefits or change their payment information must do so either online or in person next month as Social Security ends its phone services. There is an exception for those who need to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance, Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income. The SSA's phone changes, which are now slated to go into effect on April 14, will impact seniors across the country. However, those without broadband internet especially rely on phone services for accessibility.

Of those without broadband internet access, most are concentrated in the South and typically live in large rural populations, with their local government more likely to be run by Republicans. Seniors who are unable to verify their identity through the online Social Security portal will be instructed to visit their local SSA office. "A lot of rural areas, many of which are Republican strongholds, don't have reliable broadband. And they might not have a Social Security office within 50 miles. These communities will be hit hardest," Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and host of the 9innings Podcast, told Newsweek.




Read more: https://www.newsweek.com/social-security-changes-impact-republican-states-most-2052211