KEY TAKEAWAYS The U.S. is trying to keep Social Security funded, and Trump has pledged not to cut benefits.However, the administration has proposed tightening eligibility for Supplemental Security Income,

The Congressional Budget Office estimated that roughly 750,000 government employees would be furloughed each day during the shutdown. While the changes in services at local Social Security offices are not tied to the government shutdown, any update in reduced services could make it more difficult for recipients to receive their benefits.

For many, the Social Security Disability process is intimidating, particularly in Greenville, South Carolina, where a growing population and increasing awareness of disability benefits have led to more residents seeking assistance.

State officials warn one-third of unsheltered population now faces greater barriers to obtaining SSI/SSDI benefits without SOAR-trained caseworkers.