Mental Health Services

Representative Payee

A Representative Payee is appointed and regulated by the Social Security Administration to receive Social Security and/or SSI benefits for individuals who cannot manage or direct someone else to manage his or her money.


The Crisis Center Representative Payee Program meets an essential need in the community for those seeking payee services.


The primary population served consists of individuals diagnosed with severe mental illness in the Birmingham area, but all are welcome to apply.


The goal of the program is to assist recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits with money management. The Crisis Center will also take an active role in the beneficiary’s lives in order to best meet their needs.


Roles and responsibilities of the Crisis Center include:

  • Determining the beneficiary’s needs and using his/her payments to meet those needs
  • Collaborating with beneficiaries on budgeting and money management
  • Saving any money left after meeting the beneficiary’s current needs
  • Reporting any changes or events which could affect the beneficiary’s eligibility for benefits
  • Keeping records of all payments received and how they are spent and/or saved
  • Providing information to social service agencies or medical facilities that serve the beneficiary
  • Assisting the beneficiary with finding affordable food, clothing, and shelter when necessary

For more in-depth information about Representative Payee Programs, you can review the Social Security Administrations guidelines by clicking here.


For information specific to the Crisis Center's Representative Payee Program, contact (205) 458-8988