Short answer
That's expected. Social Security (SSA) says a power of attorney does not give you legal authority to manage a parent's Social Security or SSI benefits. The Treasury Department doesn't recognize a POA for federal payments. Being on a joint bank account isn't enough either.
If your parent can't manage their benefits, you apply to become their representative payee, even if you already hold a POA.
Step by step
- Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. local time on business days, or contact your nearest office.
- Ask to apply as representative payee using Form SSA-11, “Request to be selected as payee.”
- Bring documents that prove your identity and your Social Security number.
- Plan to apply in person. SSA says you usually must complete the payee application face-to-face.
- After you're approved, keep records of how you spend the benefits. You may have to file an annual Representative Payee Report.
- Keep using the POA for banks and brokerages. Our California POA checklist covers those.
Quick questions
Can I use a power of attorney for my parent's Social Security?
No. SSA says a power of attorney is not the same as being a representative payee and does not give legal authority to negotiate and manage Social Security or SSI benefits.
What form do I need to become a representative payee?
Form SSA-11, 'Request to be selected as payee', plus documents proving your identity and Social Security number. SSA says you usually must apply face-to-face.