An annuity is a sum paid yearly or at other specific times in return for the payment of a fixed sum. Annuities may be purchased by an individual or by an employer.

Pensions and retirement benefits are payments to a worker after retirement from employment. These payments may be paid directly by a former employer, by a trust fund, an insurance company, or other entity.

Disability benefits are payments made because of injury or other disability.

Annuities, pensions, retirement benefits, and disability benefits are unearned income.

Certain accident disability benefits paid within the first 6 months after the month an employee last worked are earned income. For a further explanation of sickness and accident disability payments, see SI 00820.005.

In initial claims, be alert for clues which may indicate receipt of or potential eligibility for an annuity, pension, or similar payment; e.g., long employment with a particular industry or a government agency, military service, or membership in a union.

Check for specific POMS instructions pertaining to the payment involved. (See SI 00830.160C.)

Ask if any benefits otherwise due are being withheld to recover an overpayment. If the answer is yes, see SI 00830.110.

If there are no specific POMS instructions for the payment, use award letters or other documents in the individual's possession or contact the source to verify:

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  the type, source, and amount of payment; and

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  if necessary, the frequency of payment.

It is not necessary to verify the frequency of the payment if you are familiar with the type of payment involved either through direct experience or a precedent.

If the individual does not possess an award letter or other document, a check may be used to verify the payment amount if it is clear that the amount shown represents the gross amount.

If the individual has no evidence in their possession, contact the source of the payment.