If the claimant's whereabouts become unknown any time during the adjudicatory process and:

1. a. 

   Readjudication is unfavorable

   • •

     Prepare an SSA-831/832/833-U3,

   • •

     Prepare and send a personalized notice to the claimant's last known address,

   • •

     Make systems input per DI 32586.015, and

   • •

     Send the folder to the servicing FO to retain during the appeals period.

2. b. 

   Readjudication is favorable.

   If necessary, send an SSA-883 to the FO to request assistance in locating the claimant.

   If the claimant is not located, complete any development not requiring claimant participation (e.g., with any possible current treating sources) and prepare a determination based on the evidence in file (see DI 23005.001).

Follow these procedures when the DDS learns of a class member's death.

Send the responder jacket to the FO and:

1. a. 

   if a survivor or substitute party is located, ask the FO to obtain a death certificate and return the folder for completion of the Stieberger reopening.

2. b. 

   if no survivor or substitute party is located, ask the FO to first record this fact on an SSA-5002 and then to mail copies to class counsel and the Litigation Staff per DI 12586.055, item 6.