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
There can be confusion surrounding Social Security payments, retirement, disability and/or Medicare. You can find many of the answers about these programs and services on the Social Security Administration's Frequently Asked Questions page at faq.ssa.gov. ...
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A Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) is a rule under SSI to help people with disabilities return to work. If you receive SSI or could qualify for SSI after setting aside income or resources so you can pursue—or achieve—a work goal, you could benefit from a PASS.
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People receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can obtain their new, standardized Benefit Verification letter by using their personal my Social Security account. You can use the letter as proof of income for loans, housing assistance, mortgage, and other verification purposes. ...
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There are many online sources for Social Security information, but you need to make sure you’re getting the right information. By using www.ssa.gov, you know that what you’re reading and watching is approved by Social Security experts and specifically created for you. Here are three resources where you can find valuable information about your Social Security benefits. ...
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Base your decision about when to apply for benefits on your individual and family circumstances. Would it be better for you to start getting benefits early with a smaller monthly amount for more years, or wait for a larger monthly payment over a shorter timeframe? The answer is personal and depends on several factors. Read on for the details. ...
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Change happens. We get it. The most convenient way to change your direct deposit information with us is by creating a my Social Security account online at www.ssa.gov/myaccount. Once you create your account, you can update your bank information without leaving the comfort of your home. ...
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With more people learning online, we would like to highlight some of the digital resources we have for educators. Chances are, a student will know someone who receives retirement or disability benefits. This could be a way to relate our many programs to a new audience. ...
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If Spanish is your primary language, you can visit www.ssa.gov/espanol,Social Security Administration's Spanish-language website. There, you can find information about how to get a Social Security card, plan for retirement, apply for benefits, manage your benefits, and much more. ...
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