Filing SSA-44 for a parent: who can sign
By Elder PaperworkUpdated
Short answer
Your parent signs Form SSA-44 under penalty of perjury. A representative payee can also ask on their behalf.
The Social Security pages we read don’t say whether a power of attorney or other family member can sign.
Ask Social Security before you sign for a parent.
Sources: Form SSA-44 (12-2025); POMS HI 01120.001, June 2026. Read November 4, 2026.
Key facts
Who can sign Form SSA-44?
The form asks for the beneficiary’s signature, under penalty of perjury, with a phone number and address.
Social Security’s rules say the beneficiary or the representative payee can ask for a new decision.
Can I sign with a power of attorney?
The form and the Social Security pages we read don’t address it.
Call Social Security and ask before you sign for your parent. Write down the answer and the date.
How can I help my parent without signing?
- Find the IRMAA letter and the tax return it used
- Gather proof of the life-changing event
- Call Social Security together, with your parent on the line
- Check the form before your parent signs it
How is the request sent?
Social Security lists these ways to send Form SSA-44 with your evidence:
- Online, after you sign in to your account
- By phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
- By fax or mail to a Social Security office
You can do this yourself, for free.
For each box, see how to fill out Form SSA-44.
See what you could save, before you pay.
Check my savingsDo both parents need to file?
Yes, if both pay IRMAA. A request covers only the person who makes it.
Questions
Can a representative payee file for my parent?
Yes. Social Security’s rules say the payee can ask for a new decision on the beneficiary’s behalf.
Does Social Security accept a power of attorney for SSA-44?
The sources we read don’t say. Ask Social Security before you sign.
Do both parents need a form?
Yes, if both pay IRMAA. Each request covers one person.