POMS Reference

RS 00605: Initial Computation of the PIA - Recomputations and Recalculations

TN 28 (08-99)

A. Policy

The PIA can be changed only by a recomputation or recalculation.

B. Definitions

1. Recomputations

Recomputations:

  • Involve the use of a new computation period;

  • Can be effective only to increase the PIA (or to impose WEP);

  • Are specifically provided for in the law;

  • Can be waived, in writing, if the numberholder (NH) or his/her family would be disadvantaged in some way or if he/she and every member of his/her family do not want the primary insurance amount to be recomputed for any other reason; and

  • Are effective January of the year following the year the earnings were earned. For example, earnings for 1999 will be included in a recomputation effective January 2000. There are three exceptions:

    1. A recomputation to impose WEP is effective the first month that WEP applies.

    2. A recomputation to allow credit for earnings in the year of death is effective the month of death.

    3. A recomputation meeting the requirements in RS 00605.407B.9. will be effective in the first month it is no longer disadvantageous.

2. Recalculations

Recalculations:

  • Involve the reopening of a previous computation to change computation factors or to include or exclude additional earnings in the base year period;

  • Can increase or decrease the PIA;

  • Are not specifically provided for in the law; and

  • Are effective the same month as the original computation.