TN 45 (11-11)

A. Introduction

A representative, on behalf of the minor, executes applications for child's benefits. The claimant personally completes all other applications.

B. Policy for more than one guardian

Where more than one guardian of an incompetent adult or minor is appointed, only one executes the application.

C. Procedure for completing the application

1. General

Use an application designated for the type of benefit claimed.

2. Incompetent adult

Have the representative use an appropriate method of signature (see GN 00201.015 for alternative signature methods).

If an agency or institution is the “claimant,” get the signature of the principal officer for the agency or institution and include the incompetent adult's name.
EXAMPLE: “Sheppard Pratt Hospital for Joe John by Bill Smith, Supt.” (The agency or institution determines which employee signs the application.)

Accept a rubberstamp facsimile of the principal officer's signature unless there is doubt about its authenticity. Someone else may sign that person's name if authorized to do so (e.g., “Sheppard Pratt Hospital for Jane Jones by Henry Brown, Asst. Supt., for Bill Smith, Supt.”).

3. Child

If an agency or institution is the claimant for child's benefits, only show the institution's or agency's name; e.g., “Franklin Children's Home.”

D. Reference

GN 00502.001 Representative Payee Payment Overview