I'm the PoA for a dementia patient, and had to file an extension for her taxes earlier this year because she'd thrown out or hidden all her tax documents. (Next year, everything will come directly to me, but for 2018 it was too late.) I've gotten replacements for everything but Social Security, but they won't talk to me because they don't recognize POAs. I belatedly learned that there's some sort of drawn-out application process to become the "representative payee," involving an appointment at the SSA office (in her state of residence, which is 2000 miles away from mine), followed by a review process; once that's complete, I could request one the replacement form, but I don't have time to do that before the deadline. I initially planned to go online and set up an account in my relative's name, and then download the form that way -- but it's illegal to set up an online account in anyone's name other than your own. I realize I should have figured this out before this, but spent most of this year dealing with her surgery and treatments for advanced cancer (while working full time and making repeated trips to her home state to take her to doctor's appointments, to stay with her in the hospital after surgery, to move her to a new apartment, etc. and, frankly, I was so fried I just haven't gotten to her taxes till now.) Any suggestions so she doesn't get penalized? Thanks!
(Alternatively, you could contact a CPA if you know one who actually prepares individual tax returns, but HRB is very accessible, and might be quicker.)
I think it would be safer to include the benefits without the 1099 form then not. They have a copy of the form, so she would only be penalized if the benefits weren't included on the return. That's what I would do.
I’ve had very good luck with the counselors in my local office, and although there was typically a wait, it was worth it when I met with them.
Someone suggested to me that I pretend to be the LO I represent, but I chose not to risk a perjury charge.
IF you do decide ultimately to become her designated payee, you can get her check direct deposited so your record keeping may get a little easier.
If a formal assessment of her dementia has been done, take a copy of the written report with you to the Social Security Office with you. Even though they won’t consider your POA, written documentation can help establish an authentic claim.
Good luck with this. You are doing a tough job. Don’t beat yourself up because you missed this one time glitch.
I would arrange the call so she can be disconnected while you are talking with them, however, make sure that the person you are talking to is the one that can help. I went through getting my dad to finally give the information and then I was transferred and we had to start all over. I think it is a game with the @##$% at SSA. Power with no brain is a dangerous combo.