Obj 6: Multiple & Simultaneous Entitlement
What is multiple entitlement?
When a child is entitled to more than one type of benefit (e.g., child’s benefit and DIB or RIB) at the same time.
What does “support” include when determining one-half support?
Food, shelter, clothing, ordinary medical expenses, and other ordinary and customary items for maintenance.
For which type of claimant is the one-half support requirement most commonly applied?
Parent claimants (for parent’s benefits).
How does simultaneous entitlement differ from multiple entitlement?
Simultaneous entitlement is when a child is entitled to child’s benefits on more than one earnings record for the same month, but can only be paid on one record.
What is the basic definition of “one-half support”?
The NH’s contributions must equal or exceed one-half of the claimant’s total support from all sources.
When must the one-half support requirement be met for parent’s benefits if the worker did not have a period of disability?
At the time of the worker’s death.
What must be considered when processing a case with multiple entitlements?
Which benefit is higher, whether benefits are from different trust funds, and whether payments should be combined or split.
What is the “reasonable period” for determining one-half support?
The 12 months prior to the qualifying point (e.g., death or disability), unless “untoward circumstances” or other exceptions apply.
If a parent and NH live together, which method is generally used to determine one-half support?
The pooled fund method.
Give an example of a situation where a child could have simultaneous entitlements.
A child is eligible for child’s benefits on both parents’ records in the same month.
Name and briefly describe one method for determining one-half support.
Pooled Fund Method: Used when all household income is pooled and shared equally; divide total income by number of household members to determine each share.
How long does a parent have to file proof of support after the worker’s death?
Within 2 years after the worker’s death.
What is the policy reference for handling multiple entitlements?
RS 00203.025 (and RS 00203.060 for simultaneous entitlement).
What form is used to document proof of one-half support in a parent’s claim?
SSA-760-F4 (Certificate of Support).
In spouse or surviving spouse cases, what is assumed about support if the couple lived together?
They are assumed to share equally in all income received into the household, regardless of individual incomes.