Develop the evidence necessary to determine whether insured status is met or if the
alleged onset of disability was within the prescribed period.
Take extra care to obtain and evaluate all pertinent information about factors involved
(e.g., onset date, quarters of coverage, age of claimant, date of prior termination
or cessation, or number holder’s (NH's) death in Disabled Widow(er)s Benefits (DWB)
cases, etc.). Attempt to resolve conflicts before completing action. It is not necessary
to extensively develop and establish factors (e.g., precise date insured status is
last met) when it is apparent that it is not material to the determination.
Forward to the Disability Determination Services (DDS) any case in which the facts
indicate that the claimant may have been disabled within the insured status period
or prescribed period. If the case does not require a disability determination, complete
the disallowance action.
In subsequent claims, carefully interview the claimant and screen FO records to fully
inform the claimant of the reasons for the prior denial and to update the history
of the case. It may be necessary to obtain prior Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB)
or DWB official folders if new facts are brought to light that may affect the determination.
If there are no new facts or evidence, which could change the prior determination
and the claim, is not excepted from FO handling, effectuate the disallowance action.
See Res Judicata - GN 04040.010). For CEF cases, see Processing Field Office (FO) Determinations - DI 81010.140.