Some people who receive monthly Social Security or SSI benefits may need help managing their money, and when we receive information that indicates you need help, we’ll work with you to find the most suitable representative payee to manage your benefits.

Jack Myers with Social Security explained that while many believe a Power of Attorney allows them to manage a family member's benefits, federal privacy laws prevent Social Security from recognizing those documents.

The Representative Payee is typically someone close to the beneficiary, such as a family member or a trusted friend, who receives the monthly payment and manages it on their behalf. In cases where a trusted individual isn't available, social service agencies or nursing homes can sometimes step in to fulfill the role.

To simplify the process, Social Security introduced "Advanced Designation," which allows anyone applying for benefits to name up to three people they would trust to be their payee in the future. Myers notes this can be done during the initial application process—whether online, over the phone, or in person—and can be updated at any time through a "My Social Security" account.

According to Myers, naming potential payees in advance, beneficiaries give the agency a clear lead to follow if a need for assistance is identified later on. This pre-emptive step provides peace of mind for the beneficiary and helps the agency move quickly to ensure benefits continue without interruption.

Find out more about the payee program at www.ssa.gov/payee.