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
Beginning September 30, 2024, the Social Security Administration is no longer counting food that someone gives you as income when figuring SSI payments. This new rule removes a critical barrier for SSI eligibility due to informal food assistance from friends, family and community networks of support. ...
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This Memorial Day, the Social Security Adninisration wants to remind you that benefits are provided to help the families of deceased military service members. Also, Social Security benefits protect wounded warriors when injuries prevent them from returning to active duty or performing other work. Share this information with the military families you know. ...
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Identity theft is when someone uses your personal information to impersonate you or steal from you. These crimes can impact your physical, mental and emotional health. Learning more about identity theft can help you keep your personal information safe. ...
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Quick Response codes (QR codes) are a very popular way to get information. These scannable barcodes direct you to a website. However, scammers can create QR codes to trick people into visiting a fraudulent website or downloading malware that compromises their personal information. ...
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If you've got a business to run, Social Security's online suite of services can help streamline the process for small business owners. Save valuable time when you file electronic W-2s and W-2Cs, verify employee names and Social Security numbers, and more. ...
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It's vitally important it is to raise awareness about government imposter scams with all the information you need to protect yourself. Check out Social Security's Top 5 scam awareness articles here. ...
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Fraudsters create imposter social media pages and accounts using Social Security-related images and vocabulary, making them appear as if they’re associated with or endorsed by the SSA. Learn how to spot fake Social Security social media accounts here. ...
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As we age, we have different needs, different ways we take care of our health, and different nutrients we need to get from our food. But we don’t always have enough healthy food or the desire to prepare or eat a meal. Whether you need more food, healthier food, someone to share a meal with, or just want to learn about good eating habits, a meal program can help. ...
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