Caregivers as money managers for adults with severe mental illness: how treatment providers can help

To review the prevalence, benefits, and problems associated with families who, either informally or formally as representative payees, manage money for adults with severe mental illness.

Based on empirical research and clinical cases, suggestions are offered for minimizing downsides and capitalizing upon benefits of family money management.

The findings and case vignettes demonstrate four specific strategies for treatment providers: facilitating collaboration, increasing knowledge about disability funds, improving money-management skills, and developing plans for financial decision-making.

By following these recommendations and becoming aware of whether their clients had family money managers, clinicians can promote independent functioning and family support for a substantial number of people with severe mental illness.