GN 99002.202 When to Offer Spanish Language Applications

When an individual meets any of the criteria in GN 99002.201, offer the use of Spanish language applications if: (1) A Spanish version of the application is available, and (2) there is a bilingual interviewer in the office who can conduct the interview in Spanish.

A. DO Direct Contact

In face-to-face contact, offer Spanish applications if the interviewer is sufficiently bilingual to conduct the interview in Spanish, and to fill out the necessary applications in Spanish.

Example:

Mrs. Garcia, who speaks only Spanish, comes to the DO to apply for SSI payments. If the interviewer is sufficiently bilingual to conduct the interview in Spanish and to complete the necessary applications in Spanish, offer the SSA-8000 BK-SP. Complete any remarks or narrative in English on an SSA-795. If an entry must be made on an application that requires the use of Spanish terminology such as the claimant's occupation, make the entry in Spanish with the English translation appearing in parentheses above the Spanish entry. Complete any other forms used during the claims taking process in English on the English version of the form.

B. Telephone or Mail Contact

Do not offer Spanish language applications on the basis of a telephone or mail contact. However, mail the SSA-8202, Low Probability Redetermination Form, based on the presence of a Spanish indicator on the SSR. Also, enclose a copy of the English version of the SSA-8202 along with a cover letter indicating that either of the forms can be used.


To Link to this section - Use this URL:
http://policy.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0299002202
GN 99002.202 - When to Offer Spanish Language Applications - 01/08/1997
Batch run: 05/04/2023
Rev:01/08/1997