by Karl Voigt
Recently, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has introduced changes that impact disability claimants, and it’s crucial to understand what these mean for your case.
Recent leadership changes under the Trump administration are impacting the SSA. Following the resignation of acting commissioner Michelle King, who opposed the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) access to your sensitive records, Lee Dudek was appointed as the new acting commissioner. Mr. Dudek was previously a senior adviser in the SSA’s Office of Program Integrity, focusing on anti-fraud initiatives. President Trump nominated Frank Bisignano, CEO of Fiserv, to permanently lead the SSA, but later withdrew that nomination. As of today, March 10, 2025, there is no publicly announced replacement nominee, which means that Lee Dudek will continue as acting commissioner.
One major development is the SSA’s renewed focus on Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs). The agency is ramping up efforts to re-evaluate current beneficiaries, increasing the likelihood of claimants being required to prove their ongoing eligibility. If you receive a CDR notice, it is essential to respond promptly and provide comprehensive medical documentation.
Another significant change is the tightening of medical evidence requirements. The SSA is placing greater weight on evidence from “acceptable medical sources” while giving less consideration to reports from non-traditional providers like chiropractors. This shift makes it even more important to have detailed records from physicians and specialists.
Additionally, delays in processing claims remain a pressing issue. The SSA is struggling with backlogs, leading to prolonged wait times for hearings and decisions. In alignment with the Trump administration’s directives, the SSA has announced plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 7,000 positions, aiming to decrease staff from 57,000 to 50,000 employees and closing 47 field offices. These reductions are part of broader federal efforts to streamline operations and cut costs.
These developments underscore the importance of staying vigilant and proactive in managing your disability claims.
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