Under the German system, workers are encouraged to have their coverage records officially
verified by the responsible German agency prior to applying for benefits. Workers
whose coverage has been verified receive a computer produced statement from a German
agency indicating all verified periods of coverage, including any noncontributory
periods.
Workers who have not had their coverage verified may have periods of both contributory
and noncontributory coverage under the German system which are not shown on the records
of the German agencies.