BASIC (09-02)

A. Policy

1. General

When a person files for U.S. Totalization benefits under the agreement with Australia, the applicant must submit the same evidence that would be necessary to establish a claim for regular (non-Totalization) retirement, survivors or disability insurance benefits. In addition, the applicant must submit the evidence noted in GN 01702.200 - GN 01702.230 whenever Totalization benefits are claimed from the United States.

2. Evidence of Work in Australia

When determining entitlement to U.S. Totalization benefits under the agreement, SSA can only count periods of Australian working life residence when the worker was employed or self-employed. However, since Australia's system is based on residence rather than work, the Australian agency may not be able to determine whether the worker was actually employed or self-employed during any particular period of residence. To assist Australian authorities in locating all work related periods of residence, the applicant should submit any evidence (e.g., pay slips, letters from employers, tax returns, etc.) he or she has showing periods of work in Australia.

B. Reference

Actions necessary when applicant indicates work in Australia on U.S. application, GN 01702.125, GN 01702.130