Montana, MT – Montanans relying on Social Security benefits are facing increasing challenges as staffing shortages severely impact Social Security field offices across the state. This has made resolving issues and obtaining assistance more difficult for residents who depend heavily on these vital services.
With over 258,000 Montanans receiving Social Security, accounting for more than one in five residents, these shortages pose serious concerns for individuals and the state’s economy, which benefits from the program’s injection of over $5 billion annually.
Significant Dependence on Social Security in Montana
Social Security remains a critical source of income for Montanans, helping seniors, disabled individuals, and families maintain financial stability. According to AARP data, more than 258,000 residents receive payments, underscoring why accessible support services are so important.
- More than 20% of Montana’s population relies on Social Security benefits.
- The program contributes over $5 billion to the state economy annually.
- Over 25,000 Montanans receive Social Security disability payments.
Staffing Shortages Hit Montana and Wyoming Hardest
The Strategic Organizing Center recently reported an alarming rise in demand for Social Security services coupled with a significant decline in workforce staffing levels nationwide. Montana and Wyoming have been notably affected.
- From March 2024 through March 2025, Montana experienced a 14% decrease in Social Security office staffing.
- Wyoming saw an even greater reduction with a 17% decrease in staff.
- These reductions are causing longer wait times and limited in-person assistance for residents.
One of the key reasons Montana and Wyoming suffer more than other states is the lack of stable internet access and computer availability, which makes accessing online services difficult. Additionally, the already extensive drive times to Social Security offices exacerbate the problem for many residents.
“Residents in these geographies are less likely to have stable internet and computer access to get online services. Residents of Wyoming and Montana already face significant drive times to local offices.” – Strategic Organizing Center
Potential Impact of Proposed Workforce Cuts
Concerns about future service disruptions arose when the Trump administration announced plans in February 2025 to cut 12% of the Social Security Administration’s workforce, which would mean approximately 7,000 fewer workers nationwide.
Given Montana’s existing 14% reduction in staffing, further cuts may lead to deeper challenges for Social Security recipients in the state, complicating access to necessary assistance and delaying resolution of issues.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Montanans
The combination of limited staffing and infrastructure challenges heightens the need for proactive solutions to maintain essential Social Security services in Montana. The stakes are high because:
- Social Security benefits support a significant portion of the population.
- Economic stability in many communities is tied to these payments.
- Without improvements, vulnerable groups may face increased hardship navigating the system.