TN 34 (09-11)

A. Definitions of authorized translators:

1. SSA translators

SSA translators consist of two groups:

1. Field Office (FO) and Processing Center (PC) employees authorized per the instructions in GN 00301.345. Disability Determination Services (DDS) employees and DDS contract medical employees translating foreign language documents refer to DI 23045.001.

2. Translation and Priority Workload Unit (TPWU) translators who hold actual translator positions. To request TPWU services refer to the procedures in GN 00301.390.

2. Non-SSA translators

Non-SSA translators are translators who are not SSA employees. For guidance on authorizing non-SSA translators, refer to GN 00301.350.

NOTE: SSA employees should NOT use any internet translator websites. Employees who attempt to access one of these sites will receive a warning when attempting to access internet based websites.

B. Acceptable translators outside the United States

1. Designated translators in the Veterans Administration Regional Office in the Philippines;

2. U.S. Foreign Service offices and designated employees of the Federal Benefits Units in the U.S. Foreign Service Posts trained in the claims taking process.

3. U.S. military translators or foreign national translators employed by the U.S. Military (outside United States).

4. Authorized employees of the American Consulate in Adana, Turkey.

5. Officials of a foreign government when translations appear over his or her seal of office.