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
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is on June 15, when we unite to prevent the mistreatment of and violence against older people. This includes protecting them from scams that claim to be from the Social Security Administration. SSA Public Affairs Specialist Brandon P. Smith tells us what pitfalls to watch out for. ...
Read more
Have you lost your Social Security card or has your legal name changed? You have how-to options when it's time for you to replace or correct your Social Security card. Blogger Brandon P. Smith explains how to update or replace your card online or through the mail. ...
Read more
Social Security’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides cash payments to children with disabilities whose families have limited income and resources. A child must meet certain medical requirements to be considered disabled under Social Security rules. Read on for the details. ...
Read more
On Memorial Day, the nation honors military service members who have given their lives for our country. The benefits provided by the Social Security Administration can help the surviving families of deceased military service members, wounded warriors and retiring veterans. We honor and thank the veterans who bravely served and died for our country and the military service members who serve today. ...
Read more
Scammers are using the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to file fraudulent unemployment claims, often using someone else’s identity; sometimes someone who is receiving or applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Remember that scammers always look for a chance to exploit your fears. Don’t fall for their tactics — and guard your personal information. ...
Read more
The past year has been difficult for everyone, including educators and their students. Our nation’s teachers have adapted, pivoted, and provided for their students in ways they had never imagined possible. This year, we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week from May 2 through May 8, and honor all educators who prepare our children for the future. ...
Read more
There’s probably been a time in your life when you’ve wondered, “Can I do this online instead of visiting a Social Security office?” The answer is more than likely "yes," and you can find more information about online services at ssa.gov/onlineservices. ...
Read more
People with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers must figure out how they’ll pay for care. Social Security benefits and services are vital to people with early-onset Alzheimer’s who are unable to work and have no other source of income. ...
Read more
