We may disclose relevant information about a beneficiary that a representative payee applicant needs to decide whether to serve as representative payee. The information should be limited to the following:

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  the beneficiary's or recipient's name;

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  the reason that a representative payee is needed (i.e., the fact that the individual cannot manage his or her own finances); and

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  the type of benefit and amount received.

CAUTION: Do not disclose sensitive information, such as medical records.

We may only disclose information to current representative payees that the individual needs to perform the duties of representative payee (e.g., to receive and disburse or conserve the beneficiary's Social Security benefits).

Do not disclose the address of a former representative payee nor information about how a former representative payee used benefits to the current representative payee, as the current representative payee does not need this information to perform his or her duties. We determine whether the former representative payee used the benefits properly and notify the new representative payee of any conserved funds.

REMINDER: If a representative payee is entitled to information in another capacity (e.g., as the beneficiary’s parent or legal guardian), the representative payee may receive any information he or she is entitled to in that capacity. See GN 03340.025 and GN 03340.030 for more information on providing access.