Italy counts both U.S. and Italian periods of coverage when computing Totalization benefits. As a result, any additional periods of coverage the Number Holder (NH) earns in either country after initial entitlement could increase the benefit amount. Under the agreement, Italy will recompute a Totalization benefit to consider additional U.S. QCs, or additional Italian coverage and pay any greater recomputed amount.

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  A request to have Italy consider additional U.S. coverage has to be in writing; and

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  The requestor may file the request no earlier than two years after the first month of entitlement to the Italian Totalization benefit; and

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  Requestors may file subsequent requests every two years.

When a beneficiary submits a written request to a FO for an Italian Totalization benefits recomputation:

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  Develop any lag earnings; and

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  Follow the procedure in GN 01702.310C.