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SSA logo: link to Social Security Online home 1611. Evidence Required for Payee Selection

1611.1 What evidence is needed to apply to be a payee?

The payee applicant must produce documentation of his or her identity and information showing the following:

  1. The relationship to the beneficiary;

  2. Concern and responsibility for the care of the beneficiary;

  3. The availability of other potential payees; and

  4. Their SSN/EIN.

1611.2 What evidence of a court appointment must be given to SSA?

A guardian, trustee, committee, conservator, or other fiduciary must submit a certified copy of the letters or a court order of appointment showing that the appointment is still in full force and effect.

1611.3 Will SSA request information after the selection?

Any time after the selection of a representative payee, we may request the payee to furnish information showing a continuing relationship to the beneficiary and a continuing responsibility for the care of the beneficiary. We will also request written reports accounting for how the funds were used.

1611.4 What happens if the payee does not submit the required information?

If we do not receive the information when requested, payments to the payee may stop, unless good reason for not fulfilling the request is determined and the requested information is received.

Last Revised: Aug. 2, 2007

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Last reviewed or modified Friday Feb 01, 2008

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