When foreign agencies forward totalization applications to OIO, BETs can readily determine
if a valid claim exists. However, when foreign agencies (except Canadian agencies)
request assistance for claims filed under the agreement, it is more difficult to determine
whether or not a claim or claims lead exists.
Specific arrangements have been made with most foreign agencies to ensure that applications
are taken from claimants for U.S. benefits and sent to OIO, or the claimants are referred
to a U.S. FSP. Therefore, develop claims or claims leads based on the receipt of a
request for assistance from a foreign agency (except a Belgian agency) only if:
-
1.
The claimant resides in the U.S. or a third country; or
-
2.
The claimant resides in any country and the NH has at least six U.S. QCs and either:
-
a.
The claimant is a survivor; or
-
b.
The NH is within 3 months of age 65 or older.
If either of these qualifications exist, follow the chart below to determine the correct
action(s).
NOTE: Do not consider requests from INPS for medical evidence as potential claims leads
because the requirements for Italian disability differ significantly from U.S. requirements.
RSDI Beneficiary
|
Date Claim Filed Provided by Foreign Agency*
|
Liaison Clerk Action Required |
NO |
A. |
Prior to the effective date of the agreement or none provided. |
1. 2.
|
Take claims lead action. Comply with foreign agency request.
|
|
|
B. |
On or after the effective date of the agreement. |
|
Route folder to CA. If foreign agency has requested an ER, route to CA after ER is
received. In addition, if foreign agency has requested a medical exam, route folder
to FDE to initiate exam before routing to CA. DO NOT initiate any other development.
|
|
YES (On Any SSN)
|
A. |
Prior to the effective date of the agreement or none provided. |
1. 2.
|
Take no claim or claims lead action. Comply with foreign agency request.
|
|
|
B. |
On or after the effective date of the agreement. |
1. 2.
|
Comply with foreign agency request. Ascertain what DCF has been established for U.S. benefits.
|
|
|
|
|
a. If earlier than DCF provided by foreign agency, take no claim or claims lead action. |
|
|
|
|
b. If later than DCF provided by foreign agency, route folder to CA. |
*Assume the DCF is on or after 12/79 if the statement in Part III of the 12/83 revision
of form D/USA 3 is checked.