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

‘My Social Security’ Celebrates a Milestone

The Social Security Administration's online portal – my Social Security – has now processed 60 million registrations where users have created a personal Social Security account. SSA keeps improving its online services to make doing business with them easier, faster and more accessible. ...
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Social Security Services for the Hispanic Community

Social Security Administration's Spanish-language website, ssa.gov/espanol, provides information for those whose primary language is Spanish. There, family and friends can learn about how to get a Social Security card, plan for retirement, apply for benefits, manage their benefits and much more. ...
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How Social Security Benefits You

America has a diverse population with a variety of needs. After 86 years of meeting those diverse needs, the Social Security Administration has created web pages that speak directly to groups of people who may need information about its programs and services. These pages are easy to share with friends and family on social media. ...
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Avoid Confusion! Know Your Social Security Terms

 The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal agencies to communicate information clearly in a way “the public can understand and use.” This can be particularly challenging when talking about complicated programs like Social Security, Supplemental Security Income and Medicare. Get familiar with Social Security terms as you plan for retirement. ...
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Need Help Managing Money? Try a Representative Payee

Millions of Americans who get monthly Social Security benefits or Supplemental Security Income payments need help managing their money, and may need a representative payee. This is a person or an organization the Social Security Administration appoints to receive and manage a person’s benefits. ...
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Top 5 Fraud & Scam Prevention Tools

Knowledge is power. Having the right tools to fight fraud can make a huge difference. Knowledge can also help those you love and want to protect. Here is a list of the five most important resources about Social Security scams you should know about. ...
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Retirement Tips for Women

Did you know that the very first recipient of a Social Security check in 1939 was a woman? Now, as then, it’s important to prepare for retirement. Create your personal 'my Social Security' account to view estimates of future benefits, verify your earnings and view the estimated Social Security and Medicare taxes you’ve paid.  ...
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5 Ways to Apply for Social Security Benefits Online

The Social Security Administration continues to make it easier for you to access programs regarding retirement, disability, supplemental and Medicare benefits. The website offers a convenient way to apply for benefits online. ...
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