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 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.
 

The Internet Adult Disability and Work History Report - PRO (i3368PRO) provides separate instructions for professionals, representatives, and organizations assisting adults age 18 or older in applying for disability benefits.
 

• 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.
 

Social Security's Representative Payment Program provides financial management for the Social Security and SSI payments of our beneficiaries who are incapable of managing their Social Security or SSI payments.
 

Our Representing Claimants website includes information on 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.
 

Our FOIA | Freedom of Information Act website includes the guidelines for obtaining records from the Social Security Administration under the Freedom of Information Act.

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