Re: Question about guardianship, social security

[Guest guest]

This is what I know.  I am my sons Payee and I decided not to be his

guardian.  You do not have to be a guardian to be a payee.

Shirley

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 11:14 AM

 

My son turns 18 this month.  I know I have to wait until at least January

before I apply for guardianship.  However, I just learned I can now apply for

Social Security before his 18th birthday.  Here's my question:  can I set up 

bank account and become his representative payee before I am his legal

guardian?  I'd appreciate any feedback.  Thanks.

[Guest guest]

This is what I know.  I am my sons Payee and I decided not to be his

guardian.  You do not have to be a guardian to be a payee.

Shirley

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 11:14 AM

 

My son turns 18 this month.  I know I have to wait until at least January

before I apply for guardianship.  However, I just learned I can now apply for

Social Security before his 18th birthday.  Here's my question:  can I set up 

bank account and become his representative payee before I am his legal

guardian?  I'd appreciate any feedback.  Thanks.

[Guest guest]

You can set up SSI accts, just have a power of atty. form signed and notarized

(forms avail. on  line). We use this for all of our son's school, banking and

medical needs. We did not opt for guardianship yet as we will be moving out of

state, and did not want double legal expenses with setting up guardianship (our

son in 21 now).  Good luck,

Marget

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 5:14 AM

 

My son turns 18 this month.  I know I have to wait until at least January

before I apply for guardianship.  However, I just learned I can now apply for

Social Security before his 18th birthday.  Here's my question:  can I set up 

bank account and become his representative payee before I am his legal

guardian?  I'd appreciate any feedback.  Thanks.

[Guest guest]

You can set up SSI accts, just have a power of atty. form signed and notarized

(forms avail. on  line). We use this for all of our son's school, banking and

medical needs. We did not opt for guardianship yet as we will be moving out of

state, and did not want double legal expenses with setting up guardianship (our

son in 21 now).  Good luck,

Marget

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 5:14 AM

 

My son turns 18 this month.  I know I have to wait until at least January

before I apply for guardianship.  However, I just learned I can now apply for

Social Security before his 18th birthday.  Here's my question:  can I set up 

bank account and become his representative payee before I am his legal

guardian?  I'd appreciate any feedback.  Thanks.

[Guest guest]

Are you sure about applying for Social Security now?  When I called (my

daughter is now 21), I was told that if you apply before the child turns 18,

then SSA wants the parents' financial information.  This usually means most

children won't stand a chance to be eligible.

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 5:14 AM

 

My son turns 18 this month.  I know I have to wait until at least January

before I apply for guardianship.  However, I just learned I can now apply for

Social Security before his 18th birthday.  Here's my question:  can I set up 

bank account and become his representative payee before I am his legal

guardian?  I'd appreciate any feedback.  Thanks.

[Guest guest]

Are you sure about applying for Social Security now?  When I called (my

daughter is now 21), I was told that if you apply before the child turns 18,

then SSA wants the parents' financial information.  This usually means most

children won't stand a chance to be eligible.

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 5:14 AM

 

My son turns 18 this month.  I know I have to wait until at least January

before I apply for guardianship.  However, I just learned I can now apply for

Social Security before his 18th birthday.  Here's my question:  can I set up 

bank account and become his representative payee before I am his legal

guardian?  I'd appreciate any feedback.  Thanks.

[Guest guest]

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

The system, I agree, is targeted at retirees.

BUT if you understand the SSA, it is easier to navigate.

 

Do NOTHING until the child is 18 + 1 day... SS system does not add the year of

age until after the birthday has passed!

 

May I humbly suggest the " experts " conflicting suggestions omit one key factor -

the SSA employee you get that day or the human factor! Words like it is suppose

to work like this...

forget human error opportunity! 

 

If no one else in the family is on SS, then  make an appointment with the SSI

specialist in the local office. There is usually only 1 person who gets it, and

this person usually has experience in working with our kids.

If either parent is on SS, then you need to make the appointment with the same

flavor of SSA employee. If a parent is retired, then no worries just about

anyone keep help. If the parent is on SS Disability, then see a disabled

specialist.

 

If words like recieptant payee, guardianship, et al, seem like a foriegn

language to the SSA clerk you get -- ask for a supervisor!

 

Someday I may find the time to publish the secret decoder book for the land of

IFSP, IEP and SSA!

 

Hang in there, and go get em!

Humbly grateful to be your companion

on the journey...

Gordon P. Stiefel

Phone: 708 246 5151

Fax: 708 246 9144

" All great change in America

begins at the dinner table " , Reagan.

" Now more than ever, in a world all too often deprived of light and

the courage of noble ideals, it is not the time to be ashamed of the Gospel (cf.

Rom 1: 16).

Rather, it is time to preach it from the rooftops (cf. Mt 10: 27)! "

National Meeting of Young Catholics of Switzerland (2004), Address of

II

..

From: Cindi Swanson <cbswanson@...>

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 8:33 AM

 

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

The system, I agree, is targeted at retirees.

BUT if you understand the SSA, it is easier to navigate.

 

Do NOTHING until the child is 18 + 1 day... SS system does not add the year of

age until after the birthday has passed!

 

May I humbly suggest the " experts " conflicting suggestions omit one key factor -

the SSA employee you get that day or the human factor! Words like it is suppose

to work like this...

forget human error opportunity! 

 

If no one else in the family is on SS, then  make an appointment with the SSI

specialist in the local office. There is usually only 1 person who gets it, and

this person usually has experience in working with our kids.

If either parent is on SS, then you need to make the appointment with the same

flavor of SSA employee. If a parent is retired, then no worries just about

anyone keep help. If the parent is on SS Disability, then see a disabled

specialist.

 

If words like recieptant payee, guardianship, et al, seem like a foriegn

language to the SSA clerk you get -- ask for a supervisor!

 

Someday I may find the time to publish the secret decoder book for the land of

IFSP, IEP and SSA!

 

Hang in there, and go get em!

Humbly grateful to be your companion

on the journey...

Gordon P. Stiefel

Phone: 708 246 5151

Fax: 708 246 9144

" All great change in America

begins at the dinner table " , Reagan.

" Now more than ever, in a world all too often deprived of light and

the courage of noble ideals, it is not the time to be ashamed of the Gospel (cf.

Rom 1: 16).

Rather, it is time to preach it from the rooftops (cf. Mt 10: 27)! "

National Meeting of Young Catholics of Switzerland (2004), Address of

II

..

From: Cindi Swanson <cbswanson@...>

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 8:33 AM

 

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

margie

 

sit back and enjoy the holidays and celebrate the New Year!

 

My humble suggestion is to do nothing until you have SSI letter of approval in

your hand

 

You can open a bank account later as either rep payee or guardian

Humbly grateful to be your companion

on the journey...

Gordon P. Stiefel

Phone: 708 246 5151

Fax: 708 246 9144

" All great change in America

begins at the dinner table " , Reagan.

" Now more than ever, in a world all too often deprived of light and

the courage of noble ideals, it is not the time to be ashamed of the Gospel (cf.

Rom 1: 16).

Rather, it is time to preach it from the rooftops (cf. Mt 10: 27)! "

National Meeting of Young Catholics of Switzerland (2004), Address of

II

..

[Guest guest]

margie

 

sit back and enjoy the holidays and celebrate the New Year!

 

My humble suggestion is to do nothing until you have SSI letter of approval in

your hand

 

You can open a bank account later as either rep payee or guardian

Humbly grateful to be your companion

on the journey...

Gordon P. Stiefel

Phone: 708 246 5151

Fax: 708 246 9144

" All great change in America

begins at the dinner table " , Reagan.

" Now more than ever, in a world all too often deprived of light and

the courage of noble ideals, it is not the time to be ashamed of the Gospel (cf.

Rom 1: 16).

Rather, it is time to preach it from the rooftops (cf. Mt 10: 27)! "

National Meeting of Young Catholics of Switzerland (2004), Address of

II

..

[Guest guest]

Each person is considered a legal adult at 18. SSA suggests applying 2 months

before the individual turns 18. By the time you get in the office, eligibility

is determined, s/he will be 18.

From: IPADDUnite [mailto:IPADDUnite ] On Behalf

Of Finato

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:19 AM

IPADDUnite

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

Are you sure about applying for Social Security now? When I called (my daughter

is now 21), I was told that if you apply before the child turns 18, then SSA

wants the parents' financial information. This usually means most children

won't stand a chance to be eligible.

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...<mailto:margiesillery%40>>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite <mailto:IPADDUnite%40>

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 5:14 AM

My son turns 18 this month. I know I have to wait until at least January before

I apply for guardianship. However, I just learned I can now apply for Social

Security before his 18th birthday. Here's my question: can I set up bank

account and become his representative payee before I am his legal guardian? I'd

appreciate any feedback. Thanks.

[Guest guest]

Each person is considered a legal adult at 18. SSA suggests applying 2 months

before the individual turns 18. By the time you get in the office, eligibility

is determined, s/he will be 18.

From: IPADDUnite [mailto:IPADDUnite ] On Behalf

Of Finato

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:19 AM

IPADDUnite

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

Are you sure about applying for Social Security now? When I called (my daughter

is now 21), I was told that if you apply before the child turns 18, then SSA

wants the parents' financial information. This usually means most children

won't stand a chance to be eligible.

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...<mailto:margiesillery%40>>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite <mailto:IPADDUnite%40>

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 5:14 AM

My son turns 18 this month. I know I have to wait until at least January before

I apply for guardianship. However, I just learned I can now apply for Social

Security before his 18th birthday. Here's my question: can I set up bank

account and become his representative payee before I am his legal guardian? I'd

appreciate any feedback. Thanks.

[Guest guest]

Cindi, Agreed. Every office is different. It is fine to wait until they turn

18 but no need to wait until 21.

From: IPADDUnite [mailto:IPADDUnite ] On Behalf

Of Cindi Swanson

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:33 AM

IPADDUnite

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

Cindi, Agreed. Every office is different. It is fine to wait until they turn

18 but no need to wait until 21.

From: IPADDUnite [mailto:IPADDUnite ] On Behalf

Of Cindi Swanson

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:33 AM

IPADDUnite

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

Thank you all for the very helpful and accurate information.  Yes,it is

accurate because it all circles around the question I asked.  Any time my

dart  lands on the right dartboard, I'm a happy camper.  I am actually my

adult, mentally disabled, brother's guardian so I have had some experience

navigating the system, but was thrown a curve ball hearing I could apply before

18.  Actually, given the choice of SS or dealing with the boneheads at Aetna,

I'll take SS any day of the week.  Happy Holidays to you all. 

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 5:14 AM

 

My son turns 18 this month.  I know I have to wait until at least January

before I apply for guardianship.  However, I just learned I can now apply for

Social Security before his 18th birthday.  Here's my question:  can I set up 

bank account and become his representative payee before I am his legal

guardian?  I'd appreciate any feedback.  Thanks.

[Guest guest]

Thank you all for the very helpful and accurate information.  Yes,it is

accurate because it all circles around the question I asked.  Any time my

dart  lands on the right dartboard, I'm a happy camper.  I am actually my

adult, mentally disabled, brother's guardian so I have had some experience

navigating the system, but was thrown a curve ball hearing I could apply before

18.  Actually, given the choice of SS or dealing with the boneheads at Aetna,

I'll take SS any day of the week.  Happy Holidays to you all. 

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery>

Subject: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 5:14 AM

 

My son turns 18 this month.  I know I have to wait until at least January

before I apply for guardianship.  However, I just learned I can now apply for

Social Security before his 18th birthday.  Here's my question:  can I set up 

bank account and become his representative payee before I am his legal

guardian?  I'd appreciate any feedback.  Thanks.

[Guest guest]

There are differing opinions about when to actually file the SSI application for

our young adults. Since I am in the " trenches " every day, I will convey my

experiences:

- You can file an application for SSI anytime - this does not ensure a smooth

process or an approval.

- If you file before age 18, SSI counts parents' income & assets. This GREATLY

confuses the Social Security worker. It may even result in a denial- due to

parents' income & assets.

- I have been repeatedly told by Social Security's district managers that the

easiest way to ensure a smoother application process is to apply when the

applicant has been 18 on the first of the month.

ie:  my son's birthday is December 11. I could not apply in December

because on December 1st because he was still 17 years old and my income &

assets would count against him. I applied in January.

ie:  I have a client who was born on March 1. We applied in March.

- I have had clients come to me because they have received audit letters from

SSI. They applied prior to the child turning 18, the child was approved for

SSI but now SSI wants parent income & asset info from the months prior to age

18.  A real pain.

- If your child cannot manage their own funds, you will  need a payee assigned

to his / her SSI case. ( I would consider this if the child has limited concept

of money or if someone could take advantage of his/her money). The process goes

like this:

- you go to SSI for a payee interview. Bring your child with you, if you can, as

there is a paper he/she needs to sign - agreeing that you can be the payee. If

you have guardianship, your child does NOT need to go to SSI with you.

- Once you get your first SSI check AND proof that you are the payee (the

actual letter - most banks will not accept a payee check as proof of payee -

they like the actual letter), you can then set up a PAYEE ACCOUNT. (not a joint

account, not a guardianship account, not a UTMA account). The account should be

titled:   parent name as representative payee for child's name.  (Mine is

Sherri Schneider as representative payee for Zachary Schneider). It is set up

using the CHILD'S social security number.

ONLY SSI money goes in here. (no working money, no birthday money, no holiday

money).

The parent is the only signer on the account.

- You do not need guardianship prior to applying for SSI.

- You will not receive a check for the month of application. SSI benefit checks

begin the month AFTER application.

ie:  I applied in January. When we were approved, the first SSI check I

received was for February.

Hope this helps.

________________________________

From: Ficker Terrill <cathyfickerterrill@...>

" IPADDUnite " <IPADDUnite >

Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 9:12:37 AM

Subject: RE: Question about guardianship, social security

 

Cindi, Agreed. Every office is different. It is fine to wait until they turn 18

but no need to wait until 21.

From: IPADDUnite@gro ups.com [mailto:IPADDUnite@gro ups.com] On Behalf

Of Cindi Swanson

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:33 AM

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

There are differing opinions about when to actually file the SSI application for

our young adults. Since I am in the " trenches " every day, I will convey my

experiences:

- You can file an application for SSI anytime - this does not ensure a smooth

process or an approval.

- If you file before age 18, SSI counts parents' income & assets. This GREATLY

confuses the Social Security worker. It may even result in a denial- due to

parents' income & assets.

- I have been repeatedly told by Social Security's district managers that the

easiest way to ensure a smoother application process is to apply when the

applicant has been 18 on the first of the month.

ie:  my son's birthday is December 11. I could not apply in December

because on December 1st because he was still 17 years old and my income &

assets would count against him. I applied in January.

ie:  I have a client who was born on March 1. We applied in March.

- I have had clients come to me because they have received audit letters from

SSI. They applied prior to the child turning 18, the child was approved for

SSI but now SSI wants parent income & asset info from the months prior to age

18.  A real pain.

- If your child cannot manage their own funds, you will  need a payee assigned

to his / her SSI case. ( I would consider this if the child has limited concept

of money or if someone could take advantage of his/her money). The process goes

like this:

- you go to SSI for a payee interview. Bring your child with you, if you can, as

there is a paper he/she needs to sign - agreeing that you can be the payee. If

you have guardianship, your child does NOT need to go to SSI with you.

- Once you get your first SSI check AND proof that you are the payee (the

actual letter - most banks will not accept a payee check as proof of payee -

they like the actual letter), you can then set up a PAYEE ACCOUNT. (not a joint

account, not a guardianship account, not a UTMA account). The account should be

titled:   parent name as representative payee for child's name.  (Mine is

Sherri Schneider as representative payee for Zachary Schneider). It is set up

using the CHILD'S social security number.

ONLY SSI money goes in here. (no working money, no birthday money, no holiday

money).

The parent is the only signer on the account.

- You do not need guardianship prior to applying for SSI.

- You will not receive a check for the month of application. SSI benefit checks

begin the month AFTER application.

ie:  I applied in January. When we were approved, the first SSI check I

received was for February.

Hope this helps.

________________________________

From: Ficker Terrill <cathyfickerterrill@...>

" IPADDUnite " <IPADDUnite >

Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 9:12:37 AM

Subject: RE: Question about guardianship, social security

 

Cindi, Agreed. Every office is different. It is fine to wait until they turn 18

but no need to wait until 21.

From: IPADDUnite@gro ups.com [mailto:IPADDUnite@gro ups.com] On Behalf

Of Cindi Swanson

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:33 AM

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

Sherri, you rock!

From: Sherri Schneider <benefithelpss@...>

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 3:42 PM

 

There are differing opinions about when to actually file the SSI application for

our young adults. Since I am in the " trenches " every day, I will convey my

experiences:

- You can file an application for SSI anytime - this does not ensure a smooth

process or an approval.

- If you file before age 18, SSI counts parents' income & assets. This GREATLY

confuses the Social Security worker. It may even result in a denial- due to

parents' income & assets.

- I have been repeatedly told by Social Security's district managers that the

easiest way to ensure a smoother application process is to apply when the

applicant has been 18 on the first of the month.

ie:  my son's birthday is December 11. I could not apply in December

because on December 1st because he was still 17 years old and my income &

assets would count against him. I applied in January.

ie:  I have a client who was born on March 1. We applied in March.

- I have had clients come to me because they have received audit letters from

SSI. They applied prior to the child turning 18, the child was approved for

SSI but now SSI wants parent income & asset info from the months prior to age

18.  A real pain.

- If your child cannot manage their own funds, you will  need a payee assigned

to his / her SSI case. ( I would consider this if the child has limited concept

of money or if someone could take advantage of his/her money).. The process goes

like this:

- you go to SSI for a payee interview. Bring your child with you, if you can, as

there is a paper he/she needs to sign - agreeing that you can be the payee. If

you have guardianship, your child does NOT need to go to SSI with you.

- Once you get your first SSI check AND proof that you are the payee (the

actual letter - most banks will not accept a payee check as proof of payee -

they like the actual letter), you can then set up a PAYEE ACCOUNT. (not a joint

account, not a guardianship account, not a UTMA account). The account should be

titled:   parent name as representative payee for child's name.  (Mine is

Sherri Schneider as representative payee for Zachary Schneider). It is set up

using the CHILD'S social security number.

ONLY SSI money goes in here. (no working money, no birthday money, no holiday

money).

The parent is the only signer on the account.

- You do not need guardianship prior to applying for SSI.

- You will not receive a check for the month of application. SSI benefit checks

begin the month AFTER application.

ie:  I applied in January. When we were approved, the first SSI check I

received was for February.

Hope this helps.

____________ _________ _________ __

From: Ficker Terrill <cathyfickerterrill@ raygraham. org>

" IPADDUnite@gro ups.com " <IPADDUnite@gro ups.com>

Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 9:12:37 AM

Subject: RE: Question about guardianship, social security

 

Cindi, Agreed. Every office is different. It is fine to wait until they turn 18

but no need to wait until 21.

From: IPADDUnite@gro ups.com [mailto:IPADDUnite@ gro ups.com] On

Behalf Of Cindi Swanson

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:33 AM

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

Sherri, you rock!

From: Sherri Schneider <benefithelpss@...>

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 3:42 PM

 

There are differing opinions about when to actually file the SSI application for

our young adults. Since I am in the " trenches " every day, I will convey my

experiences:

- You can file an application for SSI anytime - this does not ensure a smooth

process or an approval.

- If you file before age 18, SSI counts parents' income & assets. This GREATLY

confuses the Social Security worker. It may even result in a denial- due to

parents' income & assets.

- I have been repeatedly told by Social Security's district managers that the

easiest way to ensure a smoother application process is to apply when the

applicant has been 18 on the first of the month.

ie:  my son's birthday is December 11. I could not apply in December

because on December 1st because he was still 17 years old and my income &

assets would count against him. I applied in January.

ie:  I have a client who was born on March 1. We applied in March.

- I have had clients come to me because they have received audit letters from

SSI. They applied prior to the child turning 18, the child was approved for

SSI but now SSI wants parent income & asset info from the months prior to age

18.  A real pain.

- If your child cannot manage their own funds, you will  need a payee assigned

to his / her SSI case. ( I would consider this if the child has limited concept

of money or if someone could take advantage of his/her money).. The process goes

like this:

- you go to SSI for a payee interview. Bring your child with you, if you can, as

there is a paper he/she needs to sign - agreeing that you can be the payee. If

you have guardianship, your child does NOT need to go to SSI with you.

- Once you get your first SSI check AND proof that you are the payee (the

actual letter - most banks will not accept a payee check as proof of payee -

they like the actual letter), you can then set up a PAYEE ACCOUNT. (not a joint

account, not a guardianship account, not a UTMA account). The account should be

titled:   parent name as representative payee for child's name.  (Mine is

Sherri Schneider as representative payee for Zachary Schneider). It is set up

using the CHILD'S social security number.

ONLY SSI money goes in here. (no working money, no birthday money, no holiday

money).

The parent is the only signer on the account.

- You do not need guardianship prior to applying for SSI.

- You will not receive a check for the month of application. SSI benefit checks

begin the month AFTER application.

ie:  I applied in January. When we were approved, the first SSI check I

received was for February.

Hope this helps.

____________ _________ _________ __

From: Ficker Terrill <cathyfickerterrill@ raygraham. org>

" IPADDUnite@gro ups.com " <IPADDUnite@gro ups.com>

Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 9:12:37 AM

Subject: RE: Question about guardianship, social security

 

Cindi, Agreed. Every office is different. It is fine to wait until they turn 18

but no need to wait until 21.

From: IPADDUnite@gro ups.com [mailto:IPADDUnite@ gro ups.com] On

Behalf Of Cindi Swanson

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:33 AM

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

Thank you. I am glad it helps.

________________________________

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...>

IPADDUnite

Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 12:31:43 PM

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

 

Sherri, you rock!

From: Sherri Schneider <benefithelpss>

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 3:42 PM

 

There are differing opinions about when to actually file the SSI application for

our young adults. Since I am in the " trenches " every day, I will convey my

experiences:

- You can file an application for SSI anytime - this does not ensure a smooth

process or an approval.

- If you file before age 18, SSI counts parents' income & assets. This GREATLY

confuses the Social Security worker. It may even result in a denial- due to

parents' income & assets.

- I have been repeatedly told by Social Security's district managers that the

easiest way to ensure a smoother application process is to apply when the

applicant has been 18 on the first of the month.

ie:  my son's birthday is December 11. I could not apply in December

because on December 1st because he was still 17 years old and my income &

assets would count against him. I applied in January.

ie:  I have a client who was born on March 1. We applied in March.

- I have had clients come to me because they have received audit letters from

SSI. They applied prior to the child turning 18, the child was approved for

SSI but now SSI wants parent income & asset info from the months prior to age

18.  A real pain.

- If your child cannot manage their own funds, you will  need a payee assigned

to his / her SSI case. ( I would consider this if the child has limited concept

of money or if someone could take advantage of his/her money).. The process goes

like this:

- you go to SSI for a payee interview. Bring your child with you, if you can, as

there is a paper he/she needs to sign - agreeing that you can be the payee. If

you have guardianship, your child does NOT need to go to SSI with you.

- Once you get your first SSI check AND proof that you are the payee (the

actual letter - most banks will not accept a payee check as proof of payee -

they like the actual letter), you can then set up a PAYEE ACCOUNT. (not a joint

account, not a guardianship account, not a UTMA account). The account should be

titled:   parent name as representative payee for child's name.  (Mine is

Sherri Schneider as representative payee for Zachary Schneider). It is set up

using the CHILD'S social security number.

ONLY SSI money goes in here. (no working money, no birthday money, no holiday

money).

The parent is the only signer on the account.

- You do not need guardianship prior to applying for SSI.

- You will not receive a check for the month of application. SSI benefit checks

begin the month AFTER application.

ie:  I applied in January. When we were approved, the first SSI check I

received was for February.

Hope this helps.

____________ _________ _________ __

From: Ficker Terrill <cathyfickerterrill @ raygraham. org>

" IPADDUnite@ gro ups.com " <IPADDUnite@ gro ups.com>

Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 9:12:37 AM

Subject: RE: Question about guardianship, social security

 

Cindi, Agreed. Every office is different. It is fine to wait until they turn 18

but no need to wait until 21.

From: IPADDUnite@gro ups.com [mailto:IPADDUnite@ gro ups.com] On

Behalf Of Cindi Swanson

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:33 AM

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

Thank you. I am glad it helps.

________________________________

From: Margie Sillery <margiesillery@...>

IPADDUnite

Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 12:31:43 PM

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

 

Sherri, you rock!

From: Sherri Schneider <benefithelpss>

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009, 3:42 PM

 

There are differing opinions about when to actually file the SSI application for

our young adults. Since I am in the " trenches " every day, I will convey my

experiences:

- You can file an application for SSI anytime - this does not ensure a smooth

process or an approval.

- If you file before age 18, SSI counts parents' income & assets. This GREATLY

confuses the Social Security worker. It may even result in a denial- due to

parents' income & assets.

- I have been repeatedly told by Social Security's district managers that the

easiest way to ensure a smoother application process is to apply when the

applicant has been 18 on the first of the month.

ie:  my son's birthday is December 11. I could not apply in December

because on December 1st because he was still 17 years old and my income &

assets would count against him. I applied in January.

ie:  I have a client who was born on March 1. We applied in March.

- I have had clients come to me because they have received audit letters from

SSI. They applied prior to the child turning 18, the child was approved for

SSI but now SSI wants parent income & asset info from the months prior to age

18.  A real pain.

- If your child cannot manage their own funds, you will  need a payee assigned

to his / her SSI case. ( I would consider this if the child has limited concept

of money or if someone could take advantage of his/her money).. The process goes

like this:

- you go to SSI for a payee interview. Bring your child with you, if you can, as

there is a paper he/she needs to sign - agreeing that you can be the payee. If

you have guardianship, your child does NOT need to go to SSI with you.

- Once you get your first SSI check AND proof that you are the payee (the

actual letter - most banks will not accept a payee check as proof of payee -

they like the actual letter), you can then set up a PAYEE ACCOUNT. (not a joint

account, not a guardianship account, not a UTMA account). The account should be

titled:   parent name as representative payee for child's name.  (Mine is

Sherri Schneider as representative payee for Zachary Schneider). It is set up

using the CHILD'S social security number.

ONLY SSI money goes in here. (no working money, no birthday money, no holiday

money).

The parent is the only signer on the account.

- You do not need guardianship prior to applying for SSI.

- You will not receive a check for the month of application. SSI benefit checks

begin the month AFTER application.

ie:  I applied in January. When we were approved, the first SSI check I

received was for February.

Hope this helps.

____________ _________ _________ __

From: Ficker Terrill <cathyfickerterrill @ raygraham. org>

" IPADDUnite@ gro ups.com " <IPADDUnite@ gro ups.com>

Sent: Wed, December 16, 2009 9:12:37 AM

Subject: RE: Question about guardianship, social security

 

Cindi, Agreed. Every office is different. It is fine to wait until they turn 18

but no need to wait until 21.

From: IPADDUnite@gro ups.com [mailto:IPADDUnite@ gro ups.com] On

Behalf Of Cindi Swanson

Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 8:33 AM

IPADDUnite@gro ups.com

Subject: Re: Question about guardianship, social security

I think there is conflicting information on this. For years I have heard DO

NOT even call to make the appointment until the day of the person's

birthday. There is really nothing to be gained by doing the ap.two months

before the birthday. It only confounds the people at SSA.

We have all heard different experts talk on this. They seem to all give a

different slant on the process. In some cases it is very smooth, others,

complicated. Most SSA workers are expert in retirement benefits. I have

found they get confused with young adults with dis. It just all seems

easiest if we wait until the day of the birthday to start the process.

[Guest guest]

Just going overthis one more time..again, a new worm crawls out of the can!

Our son works, earns less than $300 a month. Also SSI and SSDI. He has a

checking account. Are you suggesting we have two separate accounts, one

for the SSA money, rep payee and the other account for the work and gifts

etc ? Cindi