Richard Jackson knows that securing Social Security benefits isn’t always easy, especially if your circumstances involve a disability or anything out of the ordinary. Fortunately for Harris Financial Group’s clients, Richard is there to help. A 29-year veteran of the Social Security Administration, Richard understands the intricacies of the federal agency’s guidelines and processes as well as anyone.

“I’ve developed a niche working with our clients on Social Security issues, and I think it has provided them with a lot of value,” Richard says. “We can make sure our clients don’t miss out on the benefits they should be getting.”

During his career with the SSA, Richard worked as a claims representative, supervisor, public affairs specialist, branch manager, and manager, gaining a wealth of expertise. Since arriving at the firm in 2003, Richard has helped hundreds of the firm’s clients contend with the Social Security claims process. 

For those with a disability or unusual circumstance, the process of filing a claim can be daunting, sometimes involving initial denials and subsequent appeals. Richard says those navigating the dense web of requirements can feel inclined to give up, but he says the work is well worth it because of the financial help Social Security benefits provide.

“People have a tendency to get frustrated with the system,” Richard says. “My main focus is to help them stay focused on filing for benefits, filing appeals when necessary, and doing everything we can within the framework of Social Security to get them what they deserve.”

Sometimes, people don’t know they are eligible for Social Security benefits and risk missing out on years of payments owed them. Richard works with his colleagues to ensure those benefits never get overlooked for Harris Financial Group’s clients.

For the more unique or complex cases, Richard turns to his extensive knowledge of the Social Security manual. In a host of instances during his career, Richard has been able to point to specific passages in the manual for clients to prove their case after their claims were first denied.

“I get great satisfaction when I hear from one of our clients that they’ve gotten a letter that says they’re going to start getting benefits, especially when it’s been a hard road to get there,” Richard says. “Anytime that happens I feel like I’ve really given them the help they needed.”

People have a tendency to get frustrated with the system. My main focus is to help them stay focused on filing for benefits, filing appeals when necessary, and doing everything we can within the framework of Social Security to get them what they deserve.

Richard, who graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a business degree, says Harris Financial Group and its collegial, collaborative climate has been an ideal setting for the second stage of his working life. 

“I like the fact that when you decide to invest with us you’re not just getting one person – you’re getting all of us,” says Richard, who also helps oversee the firm’s transactions to ensure the accuracy of each trade. “I love that we work together as a team. We stick together and all have the same goals for our clients.”

Richard served six years in the Virginia Army National Guard from March 1970 to January 1976, ending his service as a Specialist 5 Training NCO. His unit was activated for several short-term assignments for flood duty in Richmond and participated in annual construction projects at several military posts in Virginia.

In his free time, Richard stays active by playing a variety of sports. He’s also become a devoted gardener and looks for any opportunity to interact with his two grandchildren, including attending their sporting events.