TN 18 (08-13)

RS 02101.820 Determining if the Worker Worked in Covered Employment

A. Earnings record as evidence

The earnings record reflects earnings that employers or self-employed individuals report. It also shows the period(s) that the employer or self-employed individuals reported earnings. The earnings record is evidence to consider in determining the coverage status of work. If earnings were reported, it is evidence that the work is covered. We base Social Security benefits on the earnings as the employer or self-employed individuals report them to us as covered wages.

In contrast, if employers or self-employed individuals did not report the earnings, it is evidence that the worker was not engaged in covered employment. In either case, we consider the earnings record as evidence when making an employment determination, even where we developed a case and obtained other evidence.

B. When employers and self-employed individuals report earnings

In claims and earnings discrepancy cases where employers and self-employed individuals reported earnings, assume, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that they represent work in covered employment.

C. When employers and self-employed individuals do not report earnings

In claims and earnings discrepancy cases where employers and self-employed individuals do not report earnings, assume, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that the worker did not work in covered employment. For income that is not wages for annual earnings test purposes, but may be for coverage purposes, see RS 02505.045.

D. References


To Link to this section - Use this URL:
http://policy.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0302101820
RS 02101.820 - Determining if the Worker Worked in Covered Employment - 08/26/2013
Batch run: 07/03/2014
Rev:08/26/2013