RZs should be completed using the SSI Claims System whenever possible.

RZs must only be conducted during face-to-face or telephone interviews, not through the mail.

Use telephone interviews whenever possible so the recipient, payee, or any deemors do not miss work or medical appointments. Subsection A.3 below explains when face-to-face interviews are required.

If an RZ cannot be processed in the SSI Claims System, conduct a face-to-face or telephone interview using form SSA-8203-BK.

The SSA-8203-BK is not a self-help form. Assist the recipient or payee with completing the form.

If a recipient or payee requests a blank form, do not refuse to provide one; however, inform the individual that he or she will still need to complete a face-to-face or telephone interview to complete the RZ.

In the following situations, face-to-face RZ interviews are generally required.

1. a. 

   Representative payee suitability development, see SI 02305.123.

2. b. 

   Disability redeterminations, see DI 11070.001 and DI 25201.010.

3. c. 

   A qualified alien with a 7-year time limit, see SI 02305.082.

Group RZ interviews are not allowed.