Who is a representative payee?

A representative payee is defined as an individual or organization that receives and manages government benefits on behalf of someone else, typically due to the beneficiary's inability to handle their financial affairs. This arrangement is useful for protecting vulnerable individuals, such as those with disabilities or cognitive impairments, ensuring that essential needs like housing, healthcare, and daily living expenses are met. The representative payee has the responsibility to manage the funds appropriately while keeping accurate records and reporting any changes in the beneficiary's circumstances to the relevant authorities.

The other choices, while related to the broader context of public services and benefits, do not accurately define the specific role of a representative payee. An individual managing public services or an agency collecting taxes, for instance, takes on different responsibilities unrelated to the direct handling of benefits for a person unable to manage their own financial matters. The focus of the representative payee's role is uniquely centered on advocacy and stewardship for those who need assistance in managing their benefits.