Archives by: Brandon Smith
About the author
Brandon P. Smith is the author of Northeast Ohio Thrive’s Social Security & You blog. He is a Social Security public affairs specialist with the Social Security Administration, based in Cleveland. A Cleveland native, he joined the SSA in 2003. He is the primary contact for media relations, outreach, and presentations for the agency in Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, and Geauga counties. In addition to other communications awards, Brandon received a Deputy Commissioner Citation from Social Security’s Office of Communication in 2015 for his outstanding public affairs support of the agency’s national communication initiatives.
Brandon Smith Posts
For 88 years, Social Security has provided income protection to millions of retirees, people with disabilities, dependents, and families that lose a wage earner. To better serve you, we have prioritized our online customer experience. Social Security Administration's website, SSA.gov, makes it easier for you to find what you need. ...
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Two new helpful screening tools have been added to SSA.gov: the Benefits Screener and the Card Replacement Screener. The Benefits Screener helps you determine your eligibility for benefits and the Card Replacement Screener helps you request a replacement Social Security card. SSA's redesigned website—with its online tools—is the quickest, easiest and most convenient way to get business done online. ...
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Social Security benefits are part of the retirement plan of almost every American worker. If you’re among the many people covered under Social Security, you should know what your future benefit may be. Monthly benefit payments will likely be an important part of your retirement income. ...
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The Social Security Administration is making it easier for you to access programs and benefits. On its website, you can apply for benefits online. Here are five ways you can apply for benefits using ssa.gov. ...
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If you’re age 70 or older, you should apply now for the benefits you’re owed. Your Social Security benefits will not increase if you continue to delay applying for them because you are 70 or older. You can receive benefits even if you still work. ...
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Elder abuse is the intentional mistreatment or harming of an older person. An older person is defined by the Social Security Act as someone over age 60. This abuse takes many forms—including physical, emotional, and sexual harm, neglect and financial exploitation. Don’t be afraid to report instances of suspected abuse. ...
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Social Security has expanded its outreach to people in critical need of financial help who may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). People who receive SSI may qualify for other financial help, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP benefits , Medicaid and discounted internet service. ...
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Social Security's online learning resources for educators are great for teaching others about Social Security. Chances are that a student will know someone who receives retirement or disability benefits. These educational resources help communicate information about our programs to a new audience and show them how our programs can help people other than retirees. ...
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