Jessie Jackson Jr. is Eligible to Receive Benefits and Pension-Truth!
Summary of eRumor:
This is a forwarded email that alleges that after being found guilty of illegal use of campaign funds and receiving a prison sentence of two and a half years Jessie Jackson Jr. is eligible to receive disability benefits as well as a congressional pension.
The Truth:
According to a August 14, 2013 article by ABC News, “Ex-congressman Jackson is eligible to receive $8,700 dollars per month in disability pay due to his bipolar condition and could receive a partial federal pension of $45,000 per year once he reaches 65.”
Jackson
was sentenced to two and a half years in prison plus an additional three years probation after pleading guilty to the misuse of campaign funds. Jackson’s wife Sandi, a former Chicago alderman, pleaded guilty to filing false income tax returns and was sentenced to 12 months.
The retirement age and benefits guidelines for elected Representatives according to the Congressional Research Service are:
Members aged 60 or older may receive a full pension after 10 years of service in Congress.
Full pension is offered to Members age 62 after five years of service.
Posted 9/5/13