Experience has shown a high degree of fraud and the wide influence of claims helpers in certain areas. Thus, special procedures and policies have been designed for handling claims and claims-related matters from residents of Türkiye (formerly Turkey).

Although these procedures are designed primarily for the Elazig-Hozat area of the Adana consular district, they may be applied to other areas or consular districts as well.

The Elazig-Hozat area of the Adana consular district is about 300 miles from Adana. It includes Elazig and surrounding villages—Keban and Palu in the province of Elazig; Hozat, Cemisgezek and Pertek in Tunceli; Bingol.

With prior Regional Federal Benefits Officer (RFBO) authorization, a representative of the U.S. consulate in Adana (a Non-Claims Taking Post) makes a trip each year to the Elazig-Hozat area.  At that time, they interview beneficiaries and claimants, verify the existence and identity of beneficiaries, conduct investigations, and handle any other pending issues.

With prior RFBO authorization, a representative of the U.S. Consulate in Adana (a non-claims taking post (NCTP)) makes a trip each year to the Elazig-Hozat area.