Protecting What You've Earned: AARP’s Fight for Social Security

I would add a few other things

✅ Social Security will make payments on time—just as it has for almost 90 years.

Of course, a given - but then we should also have the assurance that the monies in the Trust Funds are substantial enough to cover those down the road in the same on time fashion.  But that may mean that we increase revenues or reduce benefits.  As most Actuaries see it, the FIX might mean a little of both.  Should the condition of receiving a benefit for contributions made remain in the system or should it be means tested?

✅ Claims will be processed on time and not backlogged for months.

Retirement claims are doing well in claims processing even though it might be taking a bit longer due to pure numbers of baby boomers and this panic rush of filing for Retirement benefits.  However a lot of work in the process of Disability claims has to be done because this process has been backlogged for years and years.  Tech changes to have doctors transmit medical info would be a real plus.  The process seem clear and pretty much immediate for those who have been declared medically terminal or for those who have one or more of the long list of Compassionate allowances.  The question of disability for some with other ailments remains the problem - and these are still put thru numerous appeals.  Personally, I think the (5) month waiting period for most that are disable approved is a real problem - only Dx of ALS is exempt from this condition even if the disabled person that has been declared terminal with a short expiration date - IOW, a person can die before their SSDI begin.  The Welfare disability program of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not have such a wait period once approved.

✅ Customer service will be a top priority.

Personally, I am glad that more attention is being placed on our privacy and security.  Use the individual mysocialsecurity account which is now being updated for security reasons.  Or make an appointment at the local office to take care of the needs.  If unable to do so - the beneficiary may need a representative payee to help them with their benefits.  Plus so much more can be done with the individual mysocialsecurity account like the personal assignment of an Advanced Representative Payee for the SSA to use if one has to be assigned.  

We will adjust to new routines - we will adjust without paper checks - We will adjust to making appointments.  This is no different than the changes that have come before like the switch from paper checks to auto deposits or debit cards way back when (2011)  -

The one that I would hope will be added is to find some way to explain the SSA program or logistics to people in some way for them to understand those things to which they want answers. This would cut down on a lot of phone calls in and of itself. 

We all want the same thing - a system that is properly funded, a system that is simple to use to file for benefits and in a punctual fashion, and a system that is protected from security issues.

Darryl - I appreciate the statements that AARP is making and the "ask" for assurances.  But I'm disappointed that AARP is not more visible and loud in fighting for this earned benefit for its members.  This is a moment when collective actions is required.  What other organizations are you connecting with? How are you getting the message out  - I don't see AARP representatives on either traditional news media outlets or on social media.  When can we expect an update?  As members we have been supporting AARP for years, and now we need your leadership and help!