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
If you did not apply for Medicare Part B (medical insurance) within three months before or after turning age 65, you have another chance each year during the General Enrollment Period. The period runs from January 1 to March 31 every year. ...
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Consider the start of the new year as an opportunity for you to engage with Social Security online. This begins with creating your free and secure personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount. ...
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Social Security Administration announces a change to the Attorney Fee Cap — the first in 13 years. The maximum dollar amount limit for fee agreements approved under the Social Security Act increased from $6,000 to $7,200.
Fee agreements may now be approved up to the new dollar limit, provided that the agreements otherwise meet the statutory requirements. ...
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Social Security touches the lives of nearly every American. Retirees who worked hard their whole lives, people no longer able to work due to disability, dependents and survivors all depend on the resource. As a member of the Rural Partners Network, Social Security continues reaching out to rural communities. ...
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The Social Security Administration is here for surviving family members when a worker dies. In the event of your death, certain members of your family may be eligible for survivors benefits. This includes surviving spouses, surviving divorced spouses, children and dependent parents. ...
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Looking for a silver lining in financial news? Approximately 70 million Americans will see an 8.7% increase in their Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments in 2023 for an average increase by more than $140 per month starting in January. ...
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You don't always have to take NO for the answer. If you disagree with the decision on your claim for Social Security disability benefits, you can ask for your case to be reviewed by filing an appeal. ...
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Social Security imposter scams are widespread across the United States. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email or call, hang up or do not respond. We want you to know how to identify a scammer and avoid becoming victims. ...
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