In addition to receiving initial and amended SDW awards for effectuation, the PSC’s
will also receive favorable ALJ determinations. In general, these favorable ALJ determinations
will be processed in the same manner as ALJ decisions on non-SDW cases. The ALJ decision
will be handled in accordance with existing procedures for ALJ decision effectuation,
regardless of whether the case has been mapped.
The ALJ decision will be TOELed APPEAL HEARING and will be routed to the Disability
Processing Branch (DPB) for preparation of the SSA-831. The case will then be routed
to the module Claims Authorizer (CA) for preparation of the award, and, if necessary,
to the Benefit Authorizer (BA) for MADCAP input. The Disability Processing Specialist
(DPS) and the CA should be aware that SDW cases may involve complex retroactivity,
insured status, and protective filing situations, as well as work after onset and
multiple periods of disability. Documentation in the file, including the "SDW map",
can give important clues to the appropriate periods of entitlement. If a question
arises regarding information on an SDW map, PSC personnel may contact the Cadre member
or their PSC's SDW coordinator.
If either DPB or the module recognizes the case as a SDW claim, a SDW flag should
be stapled on the folder/holder. The BA action will be subject to review by the PETE,
in accordance with existing PSC procedures.
PSC may receive hearing decision cases that are SDW cases but have not been mapped.
PSC should follow regular POMS procedures to process these hearing decisions. At a
later point in time the Cadre will map the case, taking into consideration the prior
decision and update the SDW questionnaire.
All program related and technical questions should be directed to your RO support
staff or PC OA staff. RO support staff or PC OA staff may refer questions or problems
to their Central Office contacts.