Creating Stability When It’s Needed Most
Representative payee services are designed to provide structure and oversight to help individuals live as independently as possible.
As a representative payee, TMS receives and manages benefits on a client’s behalf—ensuring rent is paid and funds are distributed in a way that supports core needs every month.
How TMS Can Help
TMS provides comprehensive, compliant representative payee services to ensure benefits are managed responsibly and in the client’s best interest.
Benefit Management
- Receipt and management of Social Security and SSI benefits
- Prioritization of housing, utilities, and food
- Budgeting based on individual circumstances
Bill Payment & Benefit Oversight
- Timely payment of rent, utilities, and expenses
- Monitoring spending to prevent misuse or financial exploitation
- Maintenance of secure and accurate financial records
SSA Compliance & Reporting
- Full compliance with SSA regulations
- Preparation and submission of required SSA accounting reports
- Ongoing communication with SSA on behalf of beneficiaries
Ongoing Support
- Regular review of beneficiary needs and budget
- Coordination with service coordinators and support teams
- Services aimed at increasing independence when appropriate
What the Process Looks Like
Becoming a TMS Client
1.
Regional Center Referral
All clients are referred to TMS by a Regional Center Service Coordinator. The Service Coordinator completes the TMS Intake Packet and submits it to TMS for processing.
2.
Social Security Review
The Social Security Administration reviews the applications and determines if TMS is granted payeeship.
3.
Account Setup & Transition
Once approved, benefits are directed to TMS, and a budget is established based on income, client needs, and expenses.
4.
Ongoing Financial Management
TMS manages funds on the client’s behalf—paying essential expenses, distributing personal funds, and maintaining required documentation.
From Our Community
In Their Own Words
"TMS is a breath of fresh air."
— Stephanie, Service Coordinator
"TMS has done so much to help Bobby and myself for so many years, and I know it will continue on. It was such a pleasure working with you–you made my life easier."
— Linda, Mother of a Client
"You guys are so nice and patient, and always so helpful. I love having you guys as my payees."
—Jerry, TMS Client
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a representative payee do?
What does a representative payee do?
A representative payee manages Social Security benefits on the client’s behalf, ensuring essential expenses such as rent, utilities, food, clothing, and medical needs are prioritized and that funds are used in a way that supports long-term stability.
How do clients start working with TMS?
How do clients start working with TMS?
Clients begin services through a referral from a contracted Regional Center or Social Security. Contact TMS to discuss next steps.
Will I have a dedicated point of contact?
Will I have a dedicated point of contact?
Yes. Each client is assigned a dedicated Account Manager who knows their situation and provides consistent support.
How are funds managed each month?
How are funds managed each month?
TMS prioritizes essential current expenses first, including rent, utilities, food, clothing, and medical needs. Remaining funds are then distributed in a structured manner to support stability throughout the month.
For clients living in a Board and Care facility, TMS remits the client’s share of cost on their behalf and issues Personal & Incidental (P&I) funds upon receipt and review of the facility’s P&I ledger.
How often does TMS issue payments?
How often does TMS issue payments?
TMS processes payments daily, Monday through Friday at 1:30 PM Pacific Time. To be processed the same day, requests must be received by 1:00 PM Pacific Time.
Will TMS manage wages and report them to Social Security?
Will TMS manage wages and report them to Social Security?
Yes. TMS can manage wages if a client chooses. TMS will report wages to Social Security on their behalf as long as paystubs are provided after each pay period. Regular and timely reporting helps reduce the risk of overpayments or underpayments and supports continued benefit eligibility.
How are personal spending funds provided to clients?
How are personal spending funds provided to clients?
TMS provides access to personal spending funds through prepaid debit cards, direct deposit, or by check, depending on the client’s needs and circumstances. Safeguards are in place to ensure funds are used appropriately and in the client’s best interest. Receipts are required for all disbursements over $200.
Does TMS report changes to Social Security and ensure compliance?
Does TMS report changes to Social Security and ensure compliance?
Yes. TMS reports required changes to Social Security, including wages, living arrangements, and other relevant updates. TMS maintains strict compliance with Social Security regulations to protect benefits and ensure ongoing eligibility.
Is there a cost for your services?
Is there a cost for your services?
The fee for TMS Representative Payee services is paid for by the servicing Regional Center.