Social Security program freeze may overwhelm field offices

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has halted a program that automatically processes Social Security cards for some new citizens and authorized workers. This program, called Enumeration Beyond Entry, usually helps newly naturalized U.S. citizens and noncitizens who have work permits by mailing their Social Security cards directly. With the program frozen, individuals who need these cards will now have to visit Social Security field offices. These offices are already crowded and understaffed, meaning longer wait times and potentially more frustration for visitors. The freeze affects many people and is temporary, according to a newsletter. However, it is unclear how long this situation will last or if it will ever be reversed. Those who have permanent resident status are still able to use the program without interruption.