If the evidence in the hearing record supports a decision in favor of the individual
on every issue, the ALJ may issue a decision without oral hearing. Even when a fully
favorable decision is issued, the notice of decision will inform the individual of
his or her right to appear at a hearing and to examine the evidence on which the ALJ
based the decision.
The determination as to whether an individual is qualified for SVB and whether he
or she is entitled to SVB will, if the individual resides in the U.S., are two separate
determinations. Until an individual qualifies for SVB, the determination on entitlement
(residence outside the U.S. within four calendar months of being notified that he
or she qualifies for SVB payments) is not made. Appeal rights attach to each determination,
so that the individual may have the right to more than one hearing on the same application.