As explained in RS 00605.386B., the modified WEP formula may apply in cases where recomputations of Totalization benefits are applicable for months prior to January 1995. The inclusion of additional foreign coverage will generally not result in any increase in a Totalization benefit since the computation is based solely on U.S. coverage and earnings. However, when WEP applies to Totalization benefits payable for months prior to January 1995, additional foreign coverage, as well as additional U.S. coverage, may result in either:

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  an exception from the WEP because the 30-year limit is reached, or

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  a benefit increase because additional years of coverage increase the percentage for the first bend point in the WEP computation.

When WEP applies to Totalization benefits payable for months prior to January 1995 and additional foreign coverage is alleged, the Office of International Operations will obtain a certified record of the foreign coverage directly from the foreign country.