The Department of Government Efficiency announced on X that the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) have eliminated approximately 1,700 unused phone plans and licenses, resulting in annual savings exceeding $1.2 million by reducing unnecessary IT costs.
According to the Government Executive, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is conducting ongoing, agency-wide audits to identify and eliminate redundant or unused IT resources within the federal government. This initiative specifically targets telecommunications spending, which often includes overlooked or obsolete contracts and subscriptions. DOGE officials said that these efforts are part of a larger drive to modernize federal technology operations and ensure every dollar is accounted for and spent efficiently.
As reported by Federal News Network, the GSA saved approximately $800,000 per year by eliminating around 1,700 unused phone plans and canceling 2,218 unused cellular equipment payments. This savings was achieved through a combination of internal audits, contract renegotiation, and transitioning existing lines to more cost-effective plans. GSA officials highlighted that these actions not only reduced costs but also improved oversight and management of agency telecommunications assets.
According to FCW, the SBA conducted a comprehensive review of its Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) licenses, reducing the number from 9,195 to 2,690. By eliminating 6,505 unused or unnecessary subscriptions, the SBA was able to achieve savings of approximately $469,000 per year. Representatives indicated that these results demonstrate the value of regular IT audits and expect further cost reductions in future reviews.
DOGE is a federal agency focused on optimizing government spending, reducing waste, and ensuring accountability in contract management. By reviewing expenditures and canceling non-essential contracts, DOGE aims to improve fiscal responsibility and enhance the effectiveness of public resource allocation.
