A representative payee’s job is to help recipients of SSD or SSI benefits who may not be able to manage their benefits in their best interests. Typically a representative payee is a friend or family member of the beneficiary, but if a friend or family member is not available there are services that can assist. The beneficiary is normally involved in the selection of the representative payee.
SSA requires that all children or legally incompetent adults have a representative payee. A representative payee may also be appointed in instances where there is evidence showing that an adult recipient cannot manage their benefits.
The representative payee will receive the beneficiary’s monthly payment and determine what is the best use of the benefits. Their job is to use that money to pay for the beneficiary’s basic needs such as: shelter, food, and medical expenses. The left over money may be given to the beneficiary for spending money or saved for future expenses.
In order to protect the rights of the beneficiary SSA requires any representative payee to complete regular reports detailing how the benefits were spent.
If SSA requires you to have a representative payee and you feel that you do not need help managing your benefits you have the option to appeal. You will need to appeal the decision in writing within 60 days of the date of your decision.
If you are currently having issues with your representative payee you can contact SSA directly regarding your issues.
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