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
Whether you’re planning for your retirement years in advance or thinking about applying for Social Security today, you probably have questions. The Frequently Asked Questions web page at faq.ssa.gov has answers to your questions about related programs and services, featuring most-asked questions at the top of the page to help you find answers faster. ...
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Your job isn’t just a source of income — it can be a vehicle to independence or the beginning step to fulfilling your dreams. Social Security's Ticket to Work program or PASS program can help you get a good start. ...
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It’s easy to sign up for a "my Social Security" account. You can access your information, benefits, and important services from just about anywhere with your personal and secure online account. ...
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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. These include widows and widowers, divorced widows and widowers, children and dependent parents. ...
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As a reminder to veterans in Northeast Ohio, the Social Security Administration's Wounded Warriors web page answers many questions about Social Security. It also shares useful information about disability benefits for veterans and active duty military personnel. On this page, you can learn how Social Security benefits are different from benefits available through the Department of Veterans Affairs. ...
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Did you know your spouse’s benefit amount could be up to 50% of your spouse’s full retirement age benefit amount? Knowing about these benefits can help you plan your financial future. Access a wealth of useful information on our retirement portal at www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement. ...
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You can sign up for Medicare Part B online! If you’re enrolled in Medicare Part A and want to enroll in Part B during the Special Enrollment Period, visit the Social Security Administration's Medicare web page at www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/. ...
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If you need a Benefit Verification letter, sometimes called a “proof of income letter,” it is available online when you need proof of Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income or Medicare. You can get your Benefit Verification letter anytime using your personal 'my Social Security' account. ...
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