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.