On October 3, 1990, the GDR (East Germany and East Berlin) merged with the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG). This unification effectively removed the GDR from Treasury Circular 655 because it ceased to exist as a separate political entity.

When the GDR and FRG merged, SSA reviewed its records to identify the beneficiaries whose benefits had been suspended because they were in the GDR. Notices were sent to those
beneficiaries in the former GDR for whom SSA records showed:

1. a. 

   a complete address, and

2. b. 

   their entitlement had not been terminated.

They were advised of the lifting of the Treasury restrictions and to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate for assistance in having their benefits resumed. Only one notice was sent. SSA assumed that the beneficiaries who did not respond to this notice either died or moved.

Before payments can be resumed to a beneficiary who resided in the GDR, the beneficiary must establish:

1. a. 

   His/her identity in a personal interview with a representative of an FSP if he/she is outside the U.S., or an FO if he/she is in the U.S.;

2. b. 

   No termination or deduction events have occurred since the beneficiary became a resident of the GDR (or if later,
   became entitled to benefits); and

3. c. 

   His/her current eligibility to receive benefits.