We realize it may be a stretch for ordinary people to want to keep up with the comings and goings of the Social Security Administration, but sometimes circumstances permit where someone does want to follow the latest news regarding the agency due to a possible retirement or disability interest. This blog is an ongoing piecemeal of recent stories that have involved Social Security. Some are tidbits and some are important things that should be known in the world of retirement or disability and others are just interesting stories and nothing more.
Car Crashes Into New Jersey Social Security Office
A car crashed into the lobby of the Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey Social Security office November 13, injuring 20 people. NBC News reported that multiple people inside the office were struck by the vehicle or debris from the crash and 18 people were treated for minor injuries, according to the police.
The driver was identified as Donna Woodall, 56. Police said Woodall’s vehicle accelerated across a sidewalk through an exterior wall into the building. Woodall had three passengers in the vehicle with her, including two children, and was attempting to park the vehicle when she lost control. Police do not believe the act was intentional. Just three days later the Social Security office re-opened for business. According to information from the police, the building was inspected and deemed safe to re-open for business Nov. 16. Repairs will be made to the building’s exterior wall while business resumes at the office, which serves about 48,000 people annually.
Saul Nomination Moves Forward
The Senate Finance Committee unanimously approved forwarding the nomination of Andrew M. Saul of New York as the next commissioner of Social Security, for a term that ends in January 2019. All 27 senators approved the measure. Additionally, the Senate Finance Committee also forwarded the nomination of Gail Ennis of Maryland to be the inspector general for Social Security. Both Saul and Ennis were nominated to the posts by President Donald Trump.
The committee submitted the following language November 15 in support of the nomination. Results of Executive Session to Consider Favorably Reporting the Nomination of Andrew M. Saul, of New York, to be Commissioner of Social Security for the term expiring January 19, 2019, Gordon Hartogensis, of Connecticut, to be Director of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation for a term of five years, and Gail S. Ennis, of Maryland, to be Inspector General, Social Security Administration.
Federal Withholding Taxes
Many questions can come to mind when someone decides to collect Social Security retirement benefits. Some people are concerned about tax implications if taxes are not withheld from benefits, but there is no need to worry because you can ask Social Security to withhold federal taxes from your benefit amount when you first apply. You can ask them to withhold 7, 10, 12 or 22 percent of your monthly benefit amount for tax purposes. If you have questions about your tax liability you should contact the IRS directly at 800-829-3676.
