Savvy Social Security Series

Navigating Social Security can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. To help you make sense of your options and make confident decisions about your future, AARP Washington recently held a series of informative webinars with Social Security expert Jammie Lyell.

Whether you're thinking about working while collecting benefits, planning for your family's financial security, or wondering when to claim your payments for maximum impact, this is the series for you.

Click on the links below to view each session.

Session #1: Making Ends Meet: Working and Collecting Social Security
Presented on May 20, 2025
Are you curious about whether it makes sense to work and collect Social Security? Or what happens to your payments if you return to work after retirement? Jammie covered what you need to know to help you make informed decisions about your retirement and employment plans.

Session #2: Family First: How Can Social Security Protect Your Loved Ones?
Presented on June 17, 2025
Discover how Social Security can be a lifeline for your spouse and family. We explore crucial questions like: How can your spouse maximize their payments? What are the eligibility criteria for family payments? How do survivor payments work? Discover practical strategies to ensure your loved ones are well-supported.

Session #3: Get the Best Bang for Your Buck: Maximizing Your Social Security
Presented on July 22, 2025

Want to get the most out of your Social Security? Timing matters. This session dives into key factors that can impact your decision — from age and income to long-term goals. Learn smart strategies, explore helpful resources, and get the info you need for your retirement.

Meet our expert

Prior to joining AARP as a program manager, Jammie Lyell served as a technical advisor during his tenure with the Social Security Administration. Driven by a passion for social services and positively impacting the lives of others, Lyell spearheads initiatives at AARP designed to enhance Social Security for millions of Americans. He has a master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology and is currently pursuing his Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management at Johns Hopkins University.