TN 15 (11-93)

A. Background

Each month, pension data from OPM are automatically matched to spouses’ MBR records. If the matched data indicate that GPO should be imposed or adjusted, an alert is generated.

B. Procedure - alert messages

1. OPM/GPO enforcement alert, CA

An alert message is generated if the matched data indicate that GPO should be imposed or adjusted.

The OPM/GPO enforcement alert message generates for a spouse’s MBR record if the OPM record shows a pension being paid, but the MBR shows no GPO data.

The CA will determine if offset applies and take the following actions:

If the claims file shows that GPO does not apply, instruct the BA to post a CSGPO of “N” to the MBR. This action avoids another alert.

If offset is imposed correctly, instruct the BA to update the GPO data to the MBR.

In all other cases, take the following actions:

• Send the exhibit letter in NL 00703.151 to the beneficiary.

• Diary and control for 35 days.

• If no protest is received (when the diary matures), instruct the BA to impose the GPO and post GPO data to the MBR.

• If a protest is received, instruct the FO to resolve the situation per GN 03001.025. Diary the case for 30 days.

2. OPM/GPO alert verify 2/3 offset, BA

This alert message is generated when two-thirds of the current Civil Service amount does not equal the offset amount on the MBR.

The BA will take the following actions:

1. If the claims file shows that, based upon the current OPM data, the correct amount of offset has been applied, correct the offset data on the MBR.

2. If the correct amount of offset has not been applied, follow the instructions in GN 02608.301B.1 in this section. This continues to be a BA function.

3. If GPO does not apply, post a CSGPO of "N" to the MBR. This avoids another alert.

3. OPM/GPO alert-prouty verify 100 percent offset

This alert message is generated when 100 percent of the current civil service amount does not equal the offset amount on the MBR. Follow 1.b. above.

C. Procedure - development

1. FO action

1. If the spouse protests the action, secure evidence to substantiate an allegation that the action to be taken is incorrect.

2. If the spouse is uncooperative:

   • Assume the OPM data are correct and apply the offset.

   • Document the facts and send them to the PC.

2. Contacting OPM

Contact OPM if information is needed to resolve the alert (e.g., historical data) or the pension data must be corrected.

1. Send correspondence to the Office of Personnel Management, Employee Service and Records Center, Claims Correspondence, Boyers, PA 16017. Include the person's CSA #, DOB, the person's SSN and the exact nature of the request.

2. Control for 60 days. When the information is received, forward all development to the PC with a determination substantiating the imposition of GPO or that GPO does not apply.

D. References

GN 02608.400 Determining Pension Applicability and Pension Amount

SM 00712.001 Variable Supplementary Medical Insurance (SMI)

RS 00601.125 Variable Supplementary Medical Insurance (SMI) Premium