BASIC (04-01)

A. Preview

This chapter discusses:

• Individuals" responsibilities for reporting changes that may affect the amount of, qualification for or entitlement to Special Veterans Benefits (SVB);

• SSA's acceptance of and responsibilities with respect to SVB post-qualification and postentitlement reports of change; and

• Processing reports having an adverse effect on SVB qualification, entitlement and/or payments.

SVB post-qualification and postentitlement reports/events resulting in a reduction or suspension of SVB are discussed in VB 01503.000. Reports/events resulting in the termination of SVB are discussed in VB 01505.000.

B. Introduction

Changes in an SVB beneficiary's circumstances can affect his/her SVB qualification status, entitlement and/or payment amount. SSA depends on reports of changes from SVB beneficiaries, their payees and other sources. SSA employees must determine if a reported change can be accepted and, if so, determine how the change affects SVB and to take the necessary action(s) to effectuate the change.

The Goldberg/Kelly due process procedures apply in SVB postentitlement reports having an adverse effect on the SVB recipient. Beneficiaries are to be provided notification prior to processing the adverse action to allow sufficient opportunity for him/her to appeal the adverse action without an interruption in SVB. See SI 02301.300 for Goldberg/Kelly due process procedures.