POMS Reference

GN 00302: Proof of Age

BASIC (09-87)

A. Policy

When a claimant is disallowed because he/she has not attained the required age, a specific DB must be established so that the claimant will know when he /she may become eligible for benefits.

B. Rule: Claimant Insured

Use the following to determine the proof-of-age development required for a disallowance where the claimant is insured by some or all DB's in file:

If the claimant was... Then...
   

Cooperative in exploring and obtaining all known existing records of age

Establish the DB regardless of the number of discrepancies or scarcity of evidence.

   
   

Uncooperative in obtaining required evidence

Document the file to show

  • What existing evidence was not submitted

  • That all necessary assistance was give the claimant per GN 01010.410

  • Why the adjudicator beleives that he/she cannot make a DB determination without further evidence.

    NOTE:In the case of a minor or incapable adult benefiiciary see GN 00502.001.

   

C. Rule: Claimant unisured

If the claimant is not insured by an DB in file, proceed as follows;

  • Do not establish a DB

  • Use a disallowance code which reflects that the claim was disallowed for a reason other than age.

D. Rule: Other type of disallowance

Where the disallowance is for a factor of eligibility other than age or insured status, proceed follows;

  • Do not establish a DB

  • Use a disallowance code which reflects that the claim was disallowed for a reason other than age.

E. Exception

If the claimant has submitted sufficient evidence to establish a DB, the adjudicator will establish the DB. If you esatablish a different DB than the claimant alleged, inform him/her of the DB established (even if DB is not the reason for disallowance.