TN 11 (09-87)

RM 03846.020 Reviewing Self-Employment Cases Returned by Field Offices

1. A. 

   Review cases received from field offices involving self-employment income to determine the following:

   1. 1. 

      Is the amount and quality of the evidence submitted in accordance with the standards and limitations set forth in the applicable authorities and guides?

   2. 2. 

      Do the determinations arrive at logical conclusions?

2. B. 

   Correct errors in mathematical computations that are discovered when reviewing the evidence in a case.

3. C. 

   Use the applicable section of RM 03849.001 through RM 03849.007 as a guide when examining withdrawal, abandonment, acceptance or no evidence cases.

4. D. 

   If the field office correctly handled the case but neglected to prepare the necessary determination, do not return the case. Prepare the Form SSA-7000 U5 and/or Form SSA-553 per RM 03846.030.

5. E. 

   If the field office completely developed the facts but arrived at an erroneous finding concerning the coverage or the amount of SEI, apply the following instructions:

   1. 1. 

      Do not return the case.

   2. 2. 

      If the Form SSA-7000 U5 and/or Form SSA-553 from the field office can be accepted with a few minor changes in ink, make such changes.

   3. 3. 

      If necessary, prepare a revised Form SSA-7000 U5 and/or Form SSA-553.

   4. 4. 

      Sign and date, in the appropriate space, all copies of Forms SSA-7000 U5 and SSA-553 prepared or approved.

      NOTE: If the field office has addressed the Form SSA-7000 U5 to the wrong IRS Service Center do not line through the incorrect address. The necessary correction will be made by the Earnings Processing Branch.

6. F. 

   Return the case to the field office with an explanatory memorandum if:

   1. 1. 

      The field office failed to obtain sufficient facts or information to permit a proper determination as to coverage or the correct amount of SEI, or

   2. 2. 

      The field office did not obtain all of the information required for preparation of notice to IRS or Form SSA-7000 U5 whenever such notice is required.

      NOTE: Do not return the case to the field office solely for (1) joint return information (items 6 and 7 on Form SSA-7000 U5) or (2) for the approximate date the return was filed (item 8 on Form SSA-7000 U5) or (3) for the business or home address when one of these addresses has been indicated.

7. G. 

   Distribute Forms SSA-7000 U5 and attached Forms SSA-553 per RM 03846.030 when closing a case.