1. a. 

   Translate from the original document or from a certified photocopy of the original.

   NOTE: Refer to GN 00301.391 for procedure to be followed by SSA translators adjudicating a domestic claim.

2. b. 

   Telephone the requesting FO if a photocopy is not acceptable or other information is needed.

3. c. 

   Determine whether the format of the foreign language document and the custodian's certification of the record are correct for the time period in which the document was issued.

4. d. 

   Use a “translator's note” (GN 00301.425) to comment on the document's genuineness, appearance, custom of the region, etc.

1. a. 

   Translate all information pertinent to the claim. If in doubt whether information is material, translate it.

2. b. 

   Translate all marginal notes.

3. c. 

   Do not assume or infer facts or dates not actually shown on the evidence (e.g., dates of recordation or issue). Show calendar conversion in a “translator's note” as not all countries use the same calendar (GN 00307.175).

4. d. 

   Do not anglicize or change the names of individuals or places to conform with current political or geographical boundaries. (Such information, if given, should be included in a “translator's note” — see GN 00301.425)

5. e. 

   Enter the translated data in the EVID screen per GN 00301.287 and GN 00301.288. Translators can also use the “RPOC” screen in MCS or the “DROC” screen for MSSICS claims in PE situations. (see GN 00301.287)

6. f. 

   Describe any irregularities on the document in detail under “Remarks”. If sufficient space is not available, use a separate sheet of paper. Use “Additional Translator Comments” as a heading and then indicate the appropriate section and entry block of the form to which the comment applies.

7. g. 

   For translators not adjudicating the claim, please indicate whether the document is evidence of the fact to be proven.

   NOTE: If documents are brought to the FO for a claim pending at a Workload Support Unit (WSU), the FO should follow the instructions in GN 01070.781.

REMINDER: Save a copy of the certified document electronically using NDRed if from a country NOT listed in GN 00301.288D.