Is Trump Getting Rid of SSI and SSDI?

The claim that former President Donald Trump is eliminating Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) has circulated in various forms, raising concerns among beneficiaries and advocates. This article examines the context of this claim, the actions taken during Trump's administration regarding Social Security, and the implications for SSI and SSDI.

What We Know

1. Social Security Administration (SSA) Support: The SSA has publicly supported Trump's memorandum aimed at preventing illegal aliens from receiving Social Security benefits, which suggests a focus on maintaining the integrity of the program rather than eliminating it outright 1.

2. Changes Under Trump: During Trump's presidency, several changes were made to Social Security policies. These included proposed staffing cuts, office closures, and modifications to how benefits are administered 410.

3. Payment Increases: Reports indicate that the SSA planned to increase monthly benefit payments and issue retroactive payments, which aligns with Trump's agenda to implement the Social Security Fairness Act 2.

4. Policy Reversals: Trump reversed a policy concerning overpayments, which has drawn criticism for potentially harming beneficiaries 3.

5. Access Limitations: Some changes have been noted that could limit access to benefits, such as new identity verification processes that may disproportionately affect older Americans and those with disabilities 8.

Analysis

The claim regarding the elimination of SSI and SSDI requires careful scrutiny of the available evidence.

• Source Reliability: The SSA's statements are official and carry weight, but they may also reflect the administration's political agenda. The SSA's support for Trump's memorandum could indicate a prioritization of immigration issues over the welfare of current beneficiaries 1.

• Media Coverage: Articles from sources like USA Today and PBS provide a broader context of the changes made during Trump's presidency. However, these sources may have varying degrees of bias; for instance, PBS is generally regarded as a reliable source, while Rolling Stone may have a more opinionated stance 68.

• Conflicting Information: While some reports highlight potential cuts and access issues, others emphasize increases in benefits and administrative efficiency 24. This dichotomy suggests that while there may be changes that could negatively impact some beneficiaries, there are also efforts to enhance benefits for others.

• Methodological Concerns: The analysis of Trump's impact on Social Security often relies on anecdotal evidence and political commentary rather than comprehensive studies. For example, claims about the potential bankruptcy of seniors due to policy changes lack detailed economic analysis 6.

• Additional Information Needed: To fully assess the implications of Trump's policies on SSI and SSDI, more detailed data on the long-term effects of these changes on beneficiaries would be beneficial. This includes studies on how staffing cuts and policy reversals have affected service delivery and access to benefits.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that Donald Trump is eliminating Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is false. The evidence reviewed indicates that while there have been significant changes to Social Security policies during Trump's presidency, including proposed cuts and access limitations, there is no definitive action taken to eliminate these programs entirely. In fact, the SSA has indicated plans to increase benefits, which contradicts the notion of outright elimination.

It is important to note that the changes made during Trump's administration could have varying impacts on beneficiaries, with some potentially facing challenges due to new policies. However, the assertion that SSI and SSDI are being eliminated lacks substantiation.

Limitations in the available evidence include a reliance on anecdotal reports and politically charged commentary, which may not provide a complete picture of the situation. Further comprehensive studies would be necessary to fully understand the long-term implications of the changes enacted.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information regarding Social Security and related policies, considering multiple sources and perspectives to form a well-rounded understanding.

Sources

1. Social Security Statement on President Trump's Memorandum, "Preventing ... https://blog.ssa.gov/social-security-statement-on-president-trumps-memorandum-preventing-illegal-aliens-from-obtaining-social-security-act-benefits/
2. Social Security says higher payments are on the way for millions of ... https://apnews.com/article/social-security-trump-biden-benefits-b762f348a9464eb6d31a7625d08c522d
3. Trump reverses Social Security overpayment policy, sparking backlash https://www.benefitspro.com/2025/03/12/trump-reverses-social-security-overpayment-policy-sparking-backlash/
4. What Trump Has Done With Social Security So Far https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/social-security/what-trump-has-done-with-social-security
5. Here are 6 Social Security changes President Trump has made so far https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/04/21/social-security-changes-trump-has-made/83192292007/
6. Social Security Rule Change Could Bankrupt Seniors - Rolling Stone https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/trump-musk-social-security-seniors-clawback-100-percent-1235297482/
7. President Trump's Social Security changes: 4 things you should know https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/personalfinance/retirement/2025/02/24/trump-social-security-changes-4-things/78838014007/
8. Trump administration's Social Security changes could limit ... - PBS https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/trump-administrations-social-security-changes-could-limit-access-to-benefits-for-millions
9. New Social Security Law May Face Problems Under Trump—Economist https://www.newsweek.com/new-social-security-law-may-face-problems-under-trump-economist-2012713
10. 5 Social Security Changes President Trump's Team Has Enacted So Far ... https://www.fool.com/retirement/2025/03/29/5-social-security-changes-president-trumps-team-ha/