The person who will be controlling your finances goes to the SS office with you and fills out the paperwork. They give them all of the instructions, including how to fill out a report at the end of year to show expenses. I have a joint checking account with my mother, but in reality, I'm not supposed to have access to the account at all. I didn't have to get a power of attorney. They are supposed to pay your bills from the account, and provide you with funds from the account as needed. Obviously, the person controlling your funds must only spend that money on you and your needs.