To be eligible for U.S. Totalization benefits, the number holder (NH) must:

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  not be insured for benefits based on U.S. coverage alone, and

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  have at least 6 U.S. quarters of coverage (QCs).

Totalization benefits may not be paid for:

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  any month prior to the effective date of the agreement, or

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  any period prior to the quarter in which the 6^th U.S. QC is acquired.