Who needs an SSA Form 1696?
The 1696-U4 is the US Social Security Administration Form otherwise called “Appointment of Representative”. This form should be filled out by an individual willing to assign a person as a representative who will be handling all matters with Social Security on behalf of the assignor. In the case in which a representative assigned, the SSA shall work with him as they would with the assignor. It is important that a qualified person be selected as a representative; it may, but does not necessarily have to be, an attorney.
What is the purpose of the Form SSA-1696-U4?
The completion of the form confirms the eligibility of the assignee to act on the assignor’s behalf in filing claims for Social Security benefits and their reconsideration (if necessary). If the form has not been submitted with the SSA, the claimant should handle their claim independently. The SSA must be able to address the completed 1696-U4 form in order to make sure that a representative has indeed been appointed and has accepted this appointment.
Is the Appointment of Representative form accompanied by any other documents?
The SSA-1696 should serve as an accompanying document rather than as a primary one. It should be completed and attached to any type of SSA applications or claims that are not submitted by the claimant themselves, but by his representative.
When is the Appointment of Representative due?
The form must be filed in a particular case of need and the appointment remains valid during the whole period of the claim’s consideration.
How do I fill out the SSA Form 1696-U4?
The form should include the following information:
-
The claimant’s data (name, SSN, address, phone number)
-
The wage earner (name and SSN)
-
A person who is being appointed
-
Claimant’s signature and date
-
Confirmation of the appointment acceptance
-
Fee arrangement