Social Security

This bulletin revises the process for responding to a hearing transcript request when the claimant has not asked for Appeals Council (AC) review and the request is for program purposes (i.e., for use in pursuing a Social Security claim). A hearing office will use its cardholder’s purchasing authority to obtain hearing transcripts in these cases. Effective immediately, transcript requests should only be sent to the AC if the claimant has already appealed to the AC, or wants a transcript in connection with a submitted request for review.

This bulletin supersedes HALLEX I-2-5-77.A.2.b, pending its revision. For third party requests, a hearing office will continue to follow the instructions in HALLEX I-2-5-77.B (assuming the third party has the right to and permission to receive the information).

A hearing office that receives a transcript request for program purposes should follow these procedures:

· Obtain a hearing transcript, using the hearing office cardholder’s purchasing authority. A hearing office will use the office common accounting number (CAN) and sub-object classification code (SOC) 2529.
· A local transcriber may be found by contacting court reporting and transcription companies in your area. Such companies should be listed in the telephone book or on the Internet. A local court clerk’s office may also be able to make a referral.

Direct all program–related and technical questions to your RO support staff. RO support staff may refer questions or unresolved issues to the appropriate Headquarters’ contact.