Abrupt changes in staffing and some procedures at the Social Security Administration, coupled with false and misleading claims about widespread fraud, have prompted heated criticism from Democrats, with some statements leaving the wrong impression that benefits are being cut.

Deep staff reductions. New policies. Spreading misinformation. Since President Trump has taken office, the agency has been in tumult.

The Social Security Administration has apparently backed off on its plans to make more older Americans travel to field offices when they apply for retirement benefits. The agency had planned to require anyone filing for benefits or changing bank account information to verify their identities in person instead of over the phone if they were unable to do so through the agency’s website.