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Glossary

Authorized representative

Someone you legally allow to apply for benefits, get information, or make decisions on your behalf.

An authorized representative is a person you give permission to act for you. They can apply for benefits, pick up documents, answer questions from the agency, or make decisions about your case.

For example, you could name your sister as your authorized representative so she can call the SNAP office and ask about your application status.

To name an authorized representative, you usually fill out a form at the agency. You both may need to sign it. The agency will only give information and make decisions based on what you authorized them to do.

Authorized representatives matter for many programs, including SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, LIHEAP, TANF, child care assistance, and others. Only the agency decides who can be your authorized representative and what they can do.

Programs where this matters

EITCInternal Revenue ServiceThe EITC is a federal tax credit for people who work and have low to moderate income. It may lower your tax and add to your refund.LIHEAPHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesLIHEAP helps households with low income pay heating and cooling bills, and may help in an energy crisis such as a shut-off notice.MedicaidCenters for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding, for children, adults, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities.SNAPUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.WICUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceWIC gives healthy foods, nutrition education and breastfeeding support to pregnant women, new mothers, infants and young children with low income.Child Care AidHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesChild care assistance helps families with low income pay for child care so parents can work, look for work, or go to school or training.SSISocial Security AdministrationSSI pays monthly cash to people with limited income and resources who are older, blind or have a disability.TANFHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesTANF gives cash help and support services to families with children who have low income. Each state runs its own program.UnemploymentUS Department of Labor / state workforce agenciesUnemployment insurance pays temporary cash benefits to workers who lose their jobs and meet their state's rules.SSDISocial Security AdministrationSSDI pays monthly benefits to people who cannot work because of a disability and who have worked and paid Social Security taxes.