Archives by: Brandon Smith

Brandon Smith

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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

Slam the Scam: How to Spot Government Imposters

There are common elements to government imposter scams. Scammers often exploit fears and threaten you with arrest or legal action. Scammers also pose as Social Security or other government employees and claim there’s a problem with your Social Security number (SSN) or your benefits.  They may even claim your SSN is linked to a crime. ...
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Social Security Celebrates Women’s History Month

Since March is Women's History Month, the Social Security Administration notes that nearly 55% of the people receiving Social Security benefits are women. Today, more women work, pay Social Security taxes, and earn credit toward monthly retirement income than at any other time in our nation’s history.  ...
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Become More Financially Confident

Planning and saving are key to a successful retirement. The earlier you start saving for retirement, the better off you will be in the future. People who have a plan are twice as likely to save effectively. ...
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Social Security’s Top 10 Webpages for 2023

Visitors to Social Security's redesigned website at SSA.gov will experience a new approach to help them find what they need more easily. Start with these top 10 webpages. ...
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Help Someone You Love Apply for Social Security

This Valentine’s Day, take time to remind your loved ones that Social Security helps people in all stages of life. Online services provide easy and convenient ways to learn about and apply for benefits. ...
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Are You Financially Educated on Retirement Savings?

Financial education helps people learn about savings, credit and loans. It also helps prepare people for life changes to weather the unexpected. Retirement shouldn't fall into the "unexpected" category. After all, we've probably thought about it and talked about it for years. Then all of a sudden, it's here. Don't let it catch you off guard. ...
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Keep Your Social Security Card Safer at Home

Scams to steal your personal information are at an all-time high. It's important to safeguard important personal documents such as your Social Security card. Keeping your card at home reduces the risk of loss or theft and helps you keep your information safe. ...
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Celebrating 50 Years of SSI as a Safety Net

In late 1972, President Nixon signed Supplemental Security Income (SSI) into law. In January 1974, the Social Security Administration began paying SSI to people who met the eligibility requirements. Fifty years later, SSI remains a lifeline program for millions of people and households with limited income and resources. ...
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