WASHINGTON, DC—Today, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond released the following statement in response to Senate passage of the Strengthening Protections for Social Security Beneficiaries Act of 2018 (HR 4547):  

“AARP applauds the unanimous passage of the bipartisan Strengthening Protections for Social Security Beneficiaries Act in the Senate following its passage earlier this year in the House. We urge the President to sign this in to law to improve protections for the 5.5 million Social Security beneficiaries who rely on an individual or organization, called a representative payee, to administer their monthly benefits in a proper and timely manner.

“Representative payees, who are expected to grow substantially in number as Baby Boomers receive their earned retirement benefits, play a critical role in serving the interests of vulnerable Social Security beneficiaries.

“The legislation would also add crucial, stronger protections to deter fraud and abuse by payees, including through expanded use of background checks.

“AARP continues to work with Congress and the Administration to assure that Social Security can continue to provide essential retirement and income security for almost all Americans and their families.”

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.