Individuals affected by disasters and previously denied Title XVI benefits due to
excess income or resources, or whose pending claim we would deny on that basis, may
now meet the Title XVI eligibility requirements.
In many cases, changes in income or resources may be a direct result of the disaster
and we must pay special attention to ensure that these individuals receive benefits
for which they may be eligible.
A notation in the Special Message field of the MBR or a code in the CG field of the
SSR will identify most affected claimants. In addition, if the SSR does not show the
code but the caller alleges being a victim from the affected area, accept the allegation
and follow the procedures. If an individual affected by the disaster contacts the
800 number or the FO for any reason:
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Check the system to see if there is a SSID.
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Determine whether the individual had a Title XVI claim denied for excess income/resources
(N01/N04).
The determination for a denial of a claim for excess income or resources prior to
the disaster was most likely correct when made. However, due to the drastic changes
brought about by disasters, the individual may be eligible now.
Filing an appeal request will extend the life of the application, allowing SSA to
develop for current eligibility and approve the case based on the prior application.
For information on the life of an application, see SI 00601.010C.2.