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.
Black Sworn In As Deputy Commissioner
David Black was sworn in as the deputy commissioner of Social Security October 22, 2019 to serve a term that expires January 19, 2025 and will also serve as the secretary to the Social Security Board of Trustees.
Black will serve as the agency’s second in command under new Commissioner Andrew Saul who was sworn into office earlier this year. Below is some background information on Black as provided by Social Security.
A Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, Mr. Black has dedicated his career in service to others. He has served in the Army for nearly 30 years, as both an enlisted soldier and an officer, and deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. Mr. Black brings a vast amount of civilian federal experience. Prior to his nomination, he served as the White House Senior Advisor for Social Security. Previously, for nearly a decade, Mr. Black was General Counsel for Social Security. He also worked with the U.S. Department of Education as the Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Office for Civil Rights.
The Average Social Security Benefit In Each State
Moneywise recently looked at the average Social Security benefit in each state and provided the information so we can see how the average annual benefit varies from state-to-state. Keep in mind, the higher your income is the higher your benefit is likely to be.
The states with the five highest average annual benefit amounts are New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, New Hampshire and Michigan. New Jersey had the highest average annual benefit amount of $19,402. The states with the five lowest average annual benefit amounts were Louisiana, Mississippi, Maine, New Mexico and Montana. Louisiana has the overall lowest average annual benefit amount of just $12,490. If you are keeping score, Minnesota registered with the ninth highest average annual benefit amount at $18,257.
Reminder Of The Scam Alert
The latest Social Security scam continues to be a problem, so much so that Social Security has recorded a special alert that will be prompted when you call the agency’s 1-800 number. According to news reports, tens of thousands of people have reported the scam where they receive a call informing their Social Security number has been suspended. They are then asked to call a number and to provide personal information where their identity is stolen. Remember to be vigilant against any types of calls that are asking for personal information and if you do receive a suspicious call you should report it to Social Security’s Office of Inspector General.
