Representative Payee Program
What is the Representative Payee Program?
The Social Security Administration determines that some SS recipients are unable to manage their money so their benefits must be paid through a Representative Payee. A Payee is responsible for using the benefits on behalf of the recipient for his or her personal care and well-being.
Who must have a Payee?
Children under the age of 18 Legally incompetent adults Recipients that SSA or a doctor has determined incapable of managing their benefits.
What are my benefits used for?
Shelter, Food, Clothing, & Medical Care
Your Payee's first priority is to make sure your day to day needs for food and shelter are being met. Then, your benefits may be used for your personal needs, such as clothing, recreation, and other expenses. Benefits can also be used to pay for medical needs, such as eyeglasses, hearing aides, and dental care that is not provided by Medicare or Medicaid.
How does Consumer Credit act on Recipients behalf?
Your Payee oversees the payment of rent, utilities and allots weekly living expense with available funds. Advocates with landlords, Social Security, and other Social Service Agencies on your behalf. Provides accurate accounting on an annual basis to the Social Security Administration on how your money is spent. Assists you in completing forms. Goes to meetings with you to the Social Security Office. Interprets for you. Helps you gather information. Receives mail for you.
Large Sums of Back Pay
Sometimes you may receive a large payment covering several months, or years for benefits.
Consumer Credit can help you manage and advise you on how to spend the money on things that would improve your daily living conditions or provide better medical care.
Interest will accrue on your account at the end of each month.
VA Representative Payee is a similar program available to Veterans.