Once a reconsideration case on an initial claim has been received from the FO, the
disability examiner is responsible for reviewing the case to determine if additional
development is warranted. If further case development is warranted, the disability
examiner:
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Determines whether the folder shows all necessary development, including appropriate
follow-up, for the initial claim. If any required development action was overlooked,
complete that development.
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Obtains additional information needed to document new allegations or a worsening of
the claimant’s condition including information that was required but not obtained
before the initial determination (e.g., SSA-3373 Function Report, Medical Evidence
of Record (MER), and work history).
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Contacts all medical sources from which the claimant received examination or treatment
since the initial determination for any new medical evidence.
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Sends unsigned medical reports secured in connection with the initial determination
which are material to the reconsidered determination to the medical source(s) for
signature; and
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Requests a DDS medical or psychological consultant who was not involved in the initial
determination review the medical evidence and provide a new medical assessment or,
if supported by the evidence, an affirmation of the initial level medical assessment.
NOTE: Disability examiners must follow up with sources that were contacted, but did not
submit MER, at the initial level.
For further instructions see:
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DI 27015.001 -- Completing Form SSA-831–U3 for Reconsideration Cases
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