Medicare, Social Security, and Power of Attorney

Making Medicare or Social Security choices on behalf of someone else requires more than standard power of attorney. Below you’ll learn which forms you need, how to apply, and much more. And, we’re going to make it simple because handling someone else’s affairs can be difficult.

Keep reading to learn more about Medicare, Social Security, and Power of Attorney.

You need an “advanced directive” to make medical choices. But, medical choices are different than Medicare or Social Security changes.

There are different forms for various changes or decisions you would want to make on behalf of another. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need.

How to Become the Decision-Maker for a Medicare Beneficiary

The law requires Medicare recipients to write a form permitting them to handle personal medical information. If they can’t give consent, the personal representative can fill out the Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information.

When you complete this form, you should gain access to:

• Personal health information from healthcare providers
• Health plans, including Medicare

Information can come from getting a paper copy, or by visiting an online portal.

Become Power of Attorney for a Medicare Beneficiary on Social Security

If you want to be the representative payee for someone on Social Security, go to the local office.

At the Social Security office, submit a letter from the recipient’s doctor that states the need for a representative payee.

Also, you’ll need to have proof of identity. Your Social Security card is necessary.

Payee applications are made in-person with Social Security. If applying on behalf of an organization, you’ll need your employee identification number.

Becoming Power of Attorney

The type of authority you need will depend on the decisions you want to make.

• Durable Power of Attorney gives financial legal authority to an agent when the principal is either capable or incapable
• Conventional Power of Attorney is granted to the agent when the principal is unfit.
• Springing Power of Attorney only occurs when the document is signed, and it stays in effect throughout the principal’s life.

An attorney can notarize any documents in your state. Each state has different rules.

When you have the forms signed and prepared you need to:

• Send copies to Medicare, the insurance company, and any healthcare facilities.
• Keep these forms in a safe place.
• Legally representing someone requires specific forms.

FAQs

Power of Attorney Might Not Be Enough

Depending on what you need, a durable power of attorney, or representative payee may be the solution. Pay attention to what tasks you need to handle; this will benefit you when looking for forms. You can always contact Medicare and Social Security to better identify the form you need.