The usual order of preference in selecting a payee for a beneficiary under age 18 is:
A natural or adoptive parent who has custody of the beneficiary or a court-appointed legal guardian;
A natural or adoptive parent who does not have custody of the beneficiary but who demonstrates strong concern for the beneficiary's well-being;
A relative or stepparent who has custody of the beneficiary;
Any one of the following:
A friend with custody who provides for the beneficiary's needs; or
A relative or close friend who does not have custody of the beneficiary but who demonstrates concern for the beneficiary's well-being; or
An authorized social agency or custodial institution.
Last Revised: Aug. 2, 2007