Where possible, claimants must personally file applications for monthly benefits before a Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) representative or, if needed, a Foreign Service Post (FSP) representative with prior Regional Federal Benefits Officer (RFBO) authorization.

In any event, an FBU or FSP (with prior authorization from the RFBO) employee must personally identify every claimant who lives in the Elazig- Hozat area before delivery of the first check.

Exception: Claims from persons not born in Türkiye (formerly Turkey) and which do not depend on Turkish proofs may be handled under the normal development procedures.

Note: Prior to May 26, 2022 Türkiye was known as Turkey. Evidence from this country could show either name depending on the issue date.

When a claimant appears at an FBU or FSP (with prior RFBO authorization) to file for benefits, FBU or FSP staff must:

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  Secure a statement concerning their claim for benefits;

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  Verify the claimant's identity;

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  Certify the claimant's identification book (see GN 00905.452D in this section); and

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  Forward this material to the Division of International Operations (DIO), with any evidence the individual submits.

Handle claims inquiries as follows:

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  Send responses to the claimant through the FBU servicing their address; and

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  Provide the FBU with the necessary forms and complete instructions if it is requested to develop a claim for benefits. Do not send the forms to the claimant.

The following form is used by the FSP in Adana (with prior RFBO authorization) to certify the contents of a claimant's Turkish census record or identification book.

WAGE EARNER

ACCOUNT NUMBER