The primary use of QCs is to determine whether an individual has acquired insured status, including freeze or DIB insured status. Use QCs to determine whether the NH meets the:

1. a. 

   eligibility requirements for various benefit formulas and for various recomputations; or

2. b. 

   40 QC exception to the alien nonpayment provision, as discussed in RS 02610.010.

Credit QCs after 1977 based on increments of covered earnings credited to the calendar year. For 1978, the law specifically set the increment amount at $250. For calendar years after 1978, refer to the increment amounts chart in RS 00301.250.