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FAQHealth Coverage

Can I apply for benefits for someone else?

In most cases, you can only apply for benefits for yourself or as the main contact for your household. But there are situations where a representative or family member can help.

Program rules & income limits
  • Published Sep 18, 2026
  • Reviewed Sep 21, 2026
  • 1 min read
A young woman helping her grandfather with forms

The short answer

You usually cannot apply for benefits for someone else without their permission. The person who needs the benefits must apply or give you legal authority to apply on their behalf.

Why this rule exists

Benefits programs need to know that the person applying is who they say they are and that they actually want the benefits. This protects people from fraud and ensures the right person gets help.

When someone else can apply

An authorized representative can apply for benefits if:

  • They have a signed power of attorney or legal authority from the person applying
  • They are a parent or legal guardian applying for a child or dependent
  • They work for a social services agency helping someone with their application
  • The person applying has a disability or language barrier and cannot apply alone

You'll usually need to show proof of your authority, such as a signed form or court document.

How to apply

The best approach is to ask the person if they can apply themselves. If they cannot, contact your state or local benefits office to ask about authorized representative rules. Each program and state may have different requirements.

Applying for benefits is free. Only the agency decides who qualifies.

Frequently asked questions

What if someone is too sick or disabled to apply?

You can ask the benefits office about getting an authorized representative. You may need to provide proof of a power of attorney or guardianship, or the agency may have a simpler process for people with disabilities.

Can I apply for Medicaid for my child?

Yes. Parents and legal guardians can apply for Medicaid for their children. Children can also apply for themselves if they are old enough. Medicaid accepts applications at any time of year through your state Medicaid agency or through HealthCare.gov.

What if someone doesn't have a Social Security number?

Benefits agencies can usually still process an application, but they will need other proof of identity. Contact your state office about what documents work for your situation.

Programs in this article

MedicaidState-run · Centers 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.SNAPState-run · USDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.

Official sources

  1. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
  2. Medicaid

Last reviewed Sep 21, 2026. Found an error? Tell us.

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Program rules & income limits

Researched from official agency sources and checked against our editorial policy.

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