Technicians must evaluate the statement or form received or transaction being conducted to determine if it requires a wet signature, or an alternative signature applies such as attestation. For statements, forms or transactions that are approved for attestation, accept and act upon the telephone response using the signature proxy guidelines in GN 00201.015. If the statement or form has a traditional pen-and-ink or "wet" signature requirement specified in POMS, then diary for 20 calendar days pending receipt of the signed statement or form.

1. a. 

   If the statement or form has not been received by the end of the diary period, re-contact the source. Re-diary if the statement or form was recently mailed.

2. b. 

   If the claimant cannot be contacted or refuses to cooperate, or if the statement or form has not been received 30 days after the second contact attempt, use DOTEL procedure to notify FO that direct contact was made, and request FO follow-up. When FO development is completed, it supersedes the direct contact oral response. Take appropriate action based on the information provided by the FO.

If the requirement for a signature is not specified in POMS, documentation of a claimant or beneficiary's statement is sufficient.

Contact the claimant by telephone and explain their different MOEL options (i.e., months as applicable)

Obtain any data relating to factors of entitlement and the payment of benefit over the claimant's signature.

See Instructions

GN 00205.015 for more detailed information and situations in which telephone contact would be appropriate.

GN 00201.015I regarding possible use of signature proxy if the additional information obtained by phone would result in an amendment to the application.

Obtain by telephone updated application data such as work deduction or suspension information.

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  Do not obtain a signed statement to verify address and student information.

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  Use the telephone to verify a date of death, divorce or marriage without obtaining a signed statement.

Exceptions:

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  Foreign address - Do not accept by telephone a change of address to a foreign country.

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  Adverse action - Verify all third party reports resulting in an adverse action, with the claimant or beneficiary or payee before payments are reduced or stopped.

Obtain an oral report of work or earnings if it is given by an acceptable reporter and accurately identifies the working beneficiary, see GN 03001.012.

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  Accept an oral statement from the claimant regarding time devoted to their self-employed trade or business per RS 02505.075 and RS 02505.100.

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  Obtain claimant's signature in questionable retirement cases, see RS 02505.100.

Student verification reports require the signature of both the student and the school official.

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  Student Signature Missing - Do not develop to obtain the signature unless there is another issue in question.

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  School Official Signature Missing - Always obtain.