Check the SSI claims folder, if readily available, for evidence of military service
if the individual filed for SSI after August 1996 and his or her military service
was developed for the purpose of SSI alien eligibility. If the file contains information
showing that the military service was verified with the VA or the NPRC, no further
development is necessary. Document the SVB file to this effect.
NOTE: A claims folder is considered to be readily available if it is in the FO taking
the claim or if the FO taking the claim is able to determine which FO has the SSI
claims file.
If the SSI folder is not in the office taking the SVB claim, ask in which office the
SSI claim was filed. If known, call that office to secure the military service information.
Document the SVB claims file to show what the review of the SSI file revealed.
If the SSI claims file is not readily available, proceed to verify the military service
as explained in VB 00205.050D.2.