Third Party Payees

If a retiree is unable to handle their money, a court may appoint a guardian or the person responsible for their financial help may apply to become their “representative payee”.

If I Am Unable to Handle My Own Money

If you become mentally or physically unable to handle your own money, a family member or someone who is able to help you should contact OPM as soon as possible.  When your family member or friends contact us, we will give them full instructions on what to do to take care of your retirement benefit for you.   They will be asked for identifying information such as your claim number, name and Social Security Number, as well as the name and address of the person responsible for your care.

Power of Attorney

OPM does not recognize Power of Attorney filings.  If you are responsible for the care or custody of a person who is either mentally or physically unable to handle his or her own money, you should contact OPM as soon as possible.   We will give you full instructions on what to do to take care of the benefits.  You should provide the claim number, name, and Social Security Number of the disabled person as well as the name and address of the responsible person.