Congressional Budget Cut Forces SSA Offices to Close Earlier

Congressional budget minus $1 billion equals 30 minutes – is not an algebraic equation, it is the effect of budget cut to Social Security Administration (SSA).

On August 15, SSA field offices nationwide begun to close to the public 30 minutes early each day. According to news reports, Social Security Commissioner Michael J. Astrue said the US Congress provided SSA with almost $1 billion less than what President Barrack Obama requested for agency’s budget for the fiscal year.

According to the Administration’s press release, the deduction on the budget for the agency makes it impossible for them to provide the amount of overtime required to manage services to the public.

SSA advises people that they can still avail of the services of the agency through its website: www.socialsecurity.gov. Anyone who plans to request for Social Security benefits, such as disability benefits, retirement benefits, or survivors benefits, may opt to apply via online.
Practically, 30 minutes less is better than reducing the benefits of the citizens. Whether the Congressional budget cut is a result of political or economic decision, the legal rights of the public should not be compromised. The executive and legislative departments of the government should safeguard the interest of the public especially when it comes to Social Security benefits.

To know more on Social Security benefits, you may consult with a lawyer in California. Dial 1-866-772-2889 or email us at ssla@mesriani.com for a free case analysis.