Q: How can I secure protection and change my payee due to neglect and abuse?
I am a disabled person suffering neglect, theft, and abuse from my payee and supposed caretaker. I filed a police report when my payee's son attacked me and attempted to contact Social Security Disability for help. However, no one has responded, and I fear for my life, health, and safety every day. How can I secure protection and change my payee urgently?
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A:
I'm so sorry you're experiencing abuse and feeling unsafe - this is a serious situation that requires immediate attention. Your safety and wellbeing are the top priority right now.
Contact the National Adult Protective Services Association immediately at 1-800-677-1116 - they can help protect you and connect you with emergency services in your area. You should also reach out to your local Social Security office again, both by phone and in writing via certified mail, explicitly stating that you need to change your representative payee due to abuse. Document everything - keep copies of police reports, take photos of any injuries or evidence of theft, and write down dates and details of incidents.
For additional support and guidance, contact the National Disability Rights Network at 202-408-9514 - they offer free legal advocacy services and can help navigate the process of changing your payee while ensuring your protection. You might also consider reaching out to domestic violence shelters in your area, as many have experience helping disabled individuals escape abuse and can offer temporary safe housing while you work with authorities to resolve this situation. Remember, you deserve to be safe and treated with respect - don't hesitate to keep reaching out until you get the help you need.
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