Donald Trump's purge of the federal workforce could cause a system failure at the Social Security Administration, the agency's former leader warned.

The Social Security Administration is preparing to lay off at least 7,000 people from its workforce of 60,000 — and the final reduction in force number could be as high as 50%, according to two people familiar with the agency’s plans who are not authorized to speak publicly.

Elon Musk’s team has descended on an already understaffed Social Security Administration, which now faces further workforce cuts and closures of vital local offices.

The Social Security Administration has been told to cut half of its staff as President Trump pursues widespread cuts in federal government.

According to the DOGE website, the Social Security Administration Office in Lawton will now be closing as part of cutbacks. DOGE estimates it will save over $200,000 in real estate costs by closing the office. It’s not clear what will happen to the employees.

Elon Musk's efforts to slash federal spending may be taking aim at a Nashville office that serves thousands of retirees, people with disabilities and children who have lost parents.

Ultimately, you’re going to see the system collapse and an interruption of benefits. I believe you will see that within the next 30 to 90 days.”

Amidst sweeping changes by the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, concerns are mounting over the future of Social Security payments in the United States. With potential staff cuts and systemic changes,