Experience has shown a high degree of fraud and the wide influence of claims helpers
in certain areas. Thus, special procedures and policies have been designed for handling
claims and claims-related matters from residents of Türkiye (formerly Turkey).
Although these procedures are designed primarily for the Elazig-Hozat area of the
Adana consular district, they may be applied to other areas or consular districts
as well.
The Elazig-Hozat area of the Adana consular district is about 300 miles from Adana.
It includes Elazig and surrounding villages—Keban and Palu in the province of Elazig;
Hozat, Cemisgezek and Pertek in Tunceli; Bingol.
With prior Regional Federal Benefits Officer (RFBO) authorization, a representative
of the U.S. consulate in Adana (a Non-Claims Taking Post) makes a trip each year to
the Elazig-Hozat area. At that time, they interview beneficiaries and claimants,
verify the existence and identity of beneficiaries, conduct investigations, and handle
any other pending issues.
With prior RFBO authorization, a representative of the U.S. Consulate in Adana (a
non-claims taking post (NCTP)) makes a trip each year to the Elazig-Hozat area.