When people who receive Social Security and SSI benefits have problems managing their money, a Representative Payee is appointed by the Social Security department to help. The representative helps to ensure that bills, including rent and utilities, are paid and some money is saved back for necessities such as food, clothing, and some amenities. Because we are appointed by the government, it is our job to make sure essential bills are paid first.

We have crafted this program with the goal of helping eligible community members; and some components of it are…

• The Representative Payee works with you to plan a budget.
• Your check is directly deposited into your account.
• Only the representative payee can write checks from your account.
• If there is any money left after the important bills are paid, you may get a weekly allowance to spend.

You must be referred by Social Security or a medical professional. You can apply if you are receiving Social Security and want a new Payee.

If you are not yet receiving Social Security, please visit https://www.ssa.gov/payee/ to check your eligibility and apply for benefits.

Once Social Security accepts your application, your Representative Payee will schedule a meeting with you at their office (or over the phone, if you’re unable to come in) to obtain the information necessary to open a ward account so that funds can be budgeted appropriately.