An affirmative action in writing is a written statement made either by the claimant or SSA which indicates that there is a basis for disagreement with the correctness of a determination or decision. It can only result from an action
taken by an adjudicator and not from a computer action.
A new application for benefits, does not constitute an affirmative action in writing.
However, if the new application for benefits includes a statement that indicates the
prior determination is incorrect, then the statement on the application would be an
affirmative action in writing.
If the new application is accompanied by new and material evidence, see GN 04010.030.
If the new application is submitted without new evidence and SSA develops and obtains
additional evidence which shows the prior determination was incorrect, then the development
request is an affirmative action in writing.