The Social Security Administration provides benefit payment management for individuals unable to manage their Social Security or SSI payments.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) appoints a representative payee to receive and manage payments on behalf of a beneficiary.

The SSA:

• Appoints representative payees, such as family, friends, or qualified organizations
• Manages Social Security and SSI benefits for beneficiaries unable to do so themselves
• Offers advance designation for up to three potential future payees
• Provides education and reporting guidance for appointed payees

Representative payees are responsible for using benefits for the beneficiary's current and future needs, saving unused funds appropriately, and maintaining accurate financial records.

Note: Power of attorney, authorized representative status, or joint bank account access does not allow someone to act as a payee. Appointment by SSA is required.

Web pages

• Home - https://www.ssa.gov/payee/
• FAQs - https://www.ssa.gov/payee/faqrep.htm?tl=5
• Advance Designation of a Representative Payee - https://www.ssa.gov/payee/advance_designation.htm