Disability Law Claims Blog

Learn How to Become a Representative Payee

Perhaps you do not have a need to receive either Supplemental Security Income or disability payments, but someone related to you might. If your relative is mentally disabled or has some other ailments that make it impossible for them to manage their Social Security accounts, it makes sense for someone close to them to do it.

If you are interested in taking on the responsibility of overseeing your relative's account, the Social Security Administration does allow family members to do so. However, if you are a friend or an organization, you might also be eligible to perform this service.

Many people appoint a power of attorney to deal with their finances should they be unable to do the job themselves. However, the SSA does not recognize a power of attorney as the best way to go about this. Instead, you will have to apply to become a representative payee, which means that you will receive the money for your relative or friend, paying their bills with it and updating the SSA account as needed.

To get this title, you will have to apply at the SSA location nearest you. You will need to fill out a form when you get there, and will likely have to talk to an employee to complete the process, so it cannot be done online. You will need to bring documents that confirm your identity, as well as your social security number.

Additionally, the beneficiary will have to prove that they need someone to receive their money, unless they are a minor or legally incompetent adult. If they cannot prove this, or do not meet the preceding requirements, then it will be assumed that they do not need a representative payee.

According to the SSA website, the following is a list of just a few of the responsibilities you will take on in this role:

• Determine and pay the needs of the beneficiary using their allotted checks
• Open a savings account for the beneficiary, using it to deposit any leftover money from their monthly payments
• Keep accurate records of what you paid for with their money; also record anything you paid for out-of-pocket so you can be reimbursed
• Keep the beneficiary's information with the SSA updated

These are just some of the aspects of stepping into this title. As you will not be paid for your time, make sure this is something you can do well, and maybe even enjoy, for your friend or relative.

If you, or your loved one, are suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The disability lawyers at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.

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Labels: disability representative payee Social Security Administration SSA Supplemental Security Income