In 100 days, the Social Security Administration (SSA) found almost $1 billion in savings. This milestone shows the agency's dedication to President Trump's public service and taxpayer money goals.
Interim Commissioner Lee Dudek praised SSA staff for making good on their promise to defend Social Security and restore public trust.
Spending cuts, or 'cost avoidance,' are expected in 2025. The SSA has concentrated on payroll, IT, contracts and grants, real estate, printing, travel, and buy card regulations.
The SSA's efforts demonstrate its fiscal responsibility. In addition to administrative savings, the SSA has identified various programmatic and operational savings opportunities.
An increase in the default withholding rate for OASDI beneficiaries is expected to increase overpayment recovery by $7 billion over the next decade.
TOP has recovered approximately $2 billion in uncollectible debt since resuming. These procedures are essential for SSA financial integrity and program funding.
The gradual introduction of the Payroll Information Exchange (PIE) should enhance payment accuracy and eliminate incorrect payments. PIE is estimated to save $1.1 billion in OASDI and $1.8 billion in federal SSI over 10 years.
Electronic medical data exchange speeds disability determinations with Health IT. This approach cuts medical record gathering expenses, which top $500 million yearly, saving taxpayers money. The SSA's process modernization shows its fiscal responsibility and service delivery focus.
The SSA wants to improve eCBSV to cut operating costs by 40% and user fees by 25%. The national rollout of the HeaRT system, which records and transcribes hearings using artificial intelligence, is estimated to save $5 million yearly. These technological advances streamline and improve efficiency.
Workforce optimization improves efficiency and service focus without saving money. This includes mandating full-time in-person work for teleworkers and enabling optional separation or rearrangement.
To improve accountability, the agency reduced work silos and optimized structures. Improved phone claim identity verifications and updated death data protect program funds and prevent improper payments.