After OARO receives the EAP agreement packet, OARO will confirm to the RO that the
packet was received. The DCARO will sign the EAP agreement on behalf of the Commissioner.
After DCARO signs the EAP agreement, OARO will mail a signed copy of the agreement
to the claimant via certified mail. The signed copy of the agreement will constitute
notice. The original signed agreement will remain with OARO pending commencement of
the civil action.
OARO will forward a copy of the agreement signed by all parties to the RO for its
files. Upon receipt, the RO will add a copy of the signed agreement to the electronic
folder, such as eView or the EP, whichever is appropriate.
OARO will forward a copy of the agreement signed by all parties to the OAO Executive
Director’s Office at ^DCARO.OAO
with “Expedited Appeals Process (EAP) Signed Agreement” in the subject line.
After the claimant and SSA sign the EAP agreement, the reconsideration determination
becomes the final decision of the Commissioner, subject to federal district court
appeal. The claimant may file an action in a federal district court within 60 days
of receiving notice that the EAP agreement was signed by SSA. Unless there is good
cause for the delay, if the claimant does not file an action in federal court within
those 60 days, the claimant will have no further appeal rights and the Commissioner’s
decision is final.