Resources

• You cannot electronically sign the application on behalf of the applicant. There are no exceptions to this rule. Only the person you are helping can electronically sign his or her Internet Social Security Benefit Application and attest to the accuracy of the information provided.

• If the applicant wishes to appoint you as his or her official representative, the applicant must sign and submit a written statement appointing you to represent him or her in dealings with Social Security. Use a Form SSA-1696 (Appointment of Representative) for this purpose. Then, in the Summary/Remarks section of the Internet Social Security Benefit Application and/or Internet Disability Report, add:

  "A Form SSA-1696 (Appointment of Representative) is being forwarded to SSA on ____(date)_____."

NOTE: If you represent claimants, and want to be eligible to receive direct payment of fees, please review the new Registration Requirements for Representatives to Receive Direct Payment of Approved Fees and Forms 1099-MISC.
 

• Comply with new health privacy standards;
• Easier for claimants and medical professionals to understand and
• Compatible with electronic communication.

Please do not use a Form SSA-827 printed earlier than 2-2003.
 

Depending on the reason, you may be able to help them request an appeal online. If the application is denied for:

• Medical reasons, the Appeal Request and Appeal Disability Report can be completed and submitted online.

• Non-medical reasons, contact their local Social Security Office or call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to request an appeal. People who are deaf or hard of hearing can call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.

• Standards of conduct for claimant representatives;
• Charging fees for representation and
• The new Registration Requirements for Representatives to Receive Direct Payment of Approved Fees and Forms 1099-MISC that are effective January 1, 2007.

We also provide guidelines on obtaining genealogical information from our records.