What would happen if you or your spouse became incapacitated and unable to work with the Social Security Administration to claim/adjust benefits or to make a request or inquiry?
Did you know that even though you may have a power of attorney that the Social Security administration will not accept it? Since powers of attorney are a state-specific document and the Social Security Administration is a federal agency, they have made the decision not to review and validate varying powers of attorney.
Instead, those wishing to represent the needs of a Social Security recipient need an alternative.
The best option which is the least amount of hassle and cost is to become a “Representative Payee” for a Social Security beneficiary. The process is fairly straightforward and is much less of a headache then becoming a court appointed guardian.
The process is as follows:
1. Complete Form SSA 11, The Representative Payee form
2. Schedule a meeting with the local Social Security office
3. Wait for the SSA to complete the review process
4. The Representative Payee will be required to complete an annual report detailing the use of funds in order to maintain their status.
Have you ever had to take care of Social Security matters for a loved one? If so, what was your experience?
