Basic (07-01)
VARO takes claims from individuals in their service area who wish to file for U.S. and/or Korean benefits under the Korean agreement and also assists in processing certain types of claims filed with the NPC.
When taking claims under the agreement, VARO should follow the same general procedures and obtain the same applications and evidence as SSA field offices.
The procedure below describes special development and routing instructions that apply to claims under the agreement filed in VARO.
In retirement and disability claims, complete the appropriate MCS application screens, the TOTALIZATION (TOTL) screen (see MSOM MCS 009.011) and the SSA-2490 screens (see MSOM MCS 007.001).
In survivor claims, complete the appropriate MCS application screens, the TOTALIZATION (TOTL) screen (see MSOM MCS 009.011) and Part I of the paper or electronic (e-form) application Form SSA-2490-BK.
Forward a liaison form SSA-2960-KOR, U.S./Korea Agreement on Social Security Request/Transmittal/Certification Form, to the NPC to request a Korean coverage record if it appears the worker is not insured based on U.S. coverage alone.
Note: This form may be printed from the SSA Totalization Forms section of the Totalization Resource Kit.
Forward the claim to OIO and include a copy of the completed liaison form sent to the NPC.
Have the applicant complete the application for Korean benefits (KOR-USA 1) using the Guide for Completing an Application for Korean Benefits Under the Agreement.
Note: The Korean application and Guide may be printed from the SSA Totalization Forms section of the Totalization Resource Kit.
Mail the Korean application, a copy of the U.S. coverage record (ICERS) and any evidence the applicant wants to submit to the NPC under cover of Form SSA-2960-KOR. Be sure to enter the protective filing date on the form.
Note: Form SSA-2960-KOR may be printed from the SSA Totalization Forms section of the Totalization Resource Kit.
If the claim is for Korean disability benefits, give the applicant the Korean Medical Report (KOR-USA 1M) and instruct them to have their physician complete it and return it to the NPC. Provide a return envelope pre-addressed to the NPC.
Note: The Korean Medical Report Form may be printed from the SSA Totalization Forms section of the Totalization Resource Kit.
Inform the applicant that the NPC will contact him/her directly if they need any additional information.
Mail the Korean application, a copy of the U.S. coverage record (ICERS or MCS) and any evidence the applicant wants to submit to the NPC under cover of Form SSA-2960-KOR. Be sure to enter the protective filing date on the form and request a Korean coverage record if it appears the worker is not insured based on U.S. coverage only.
Note: Form SSA-2960 KOR may be printed from the SSA Totalization Forms section of the Totalization Resource Kit.
Forward the U.S. claim to OIO and include a copy of the completed liaison form sent to the NPC.
Inform the applicant that the NPC will contact him/her directly if they need any additional information regarding the claim for Korean benefits.
FO and FSP Development, GN 01702.100
Applications and Evidence for Korean Agreement, GN 01741.205 – GN 01741.220
Completing the TOTALIZATION (TOTL) screen, MSOM MCS 009.011
Completing the SSA-2490 screens, MSOM MCS 007.001