Suppose your significant other, parent, sibling, or friend desperately needs Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income, but cannot apply for those benefits or follow through with the approval process. Now, it's up to you to secure the disability benefits your loved one requires. Keeping reading to learn more about this big responsibility:
Develop a Clear Understanding of the Impact of Your Loved One's Disability
Your loved one may be unable to communicate the full extent of their suffering. Be careful not to underestimate the pain this person is experiencing. Carefully observe what the disability applicant can and cannot do as a result of their condition, and be prepared to report on these observations.
Be Prepared to Act as a Representative Payee
The Social Security Administration appoints a representative payee to manage benefits on behalf of those who are too ill to do so themselves. The payee's job is to use the awarded benefits to pay for necessary care and save benefits that are not needed. The payee must also keep a clear record of these expenses and savings. The Social Security Administration recommends that payees act not only in the financial interests of the beneficiary, but also take an active role in that person's life.
Applying to Be a Representative Payee
If you already have power of attorney, you'll still need to apply to be your loved one's representative payee. The application process is simple, but it typically occurs in person. Complete form SSA-11, and be prepared to show documents that prove your identity.
As a representative payee, you can positively impact your loved one's life. Take your duties seriously — you are the integral link between your loved one and the care they desperately need.