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2890.10.15 VERIFICATION OF SOCIAL SECURITY INCOME

The Social Security Administration rounds down the entitlement amount to the nearest whole dollar. The amount of all Social Security checks (with a few rare exceptions) are in whole dollars.

When verifying Social Security benefits, the "unrounded gross benefit amount" and the "net payment amount" (Medicare Part B is withheld) are required. The "gross payment amount" is the unrounded amount with the cents dropped and is the amount of the benefit check for an individual who does not have the Medicare Part B deducted. Enter the unrounded gross benefit in the eligibility system for individuals who have Medicare Part B deducted. Enter Medicare Part B in the eligibility system as self-pay or bought in. Refer to Section 3440.45.00 (S).

Sources of verification of Social Security include: • The un-cashed benefit check (by itself) if: o the individual does not have Medicare Part B coverage; or o the individual is on Buy-In. • Form SSA-1610: o request verification of the "unrounded gross benefit amount" and o the "net payment amount". • BENDEX; or • the entitlement letter if the unrounded gross benefit and "net payment amount" is clearly specified. 2890.10.20 VERIFICATION OF VETERANS’ BENEFITS

Verification of Veterans' Benefits generally must be obtained by contacting the Department of Veterans' Affairs. If the veteran has no dependents, the amount can be verified by the benefit check or entitlement letter.

However, if the benefit includes an allowance for dependents, the eligibility worker must request a breakdown of the benefit. If the Department of Veterans' Affairs will not provide such breakdown, the entire amount is considered income to the veteran. Refer to Section 2840.10.00. 2890.10.25 VERIFICATION OF RAILROAD RETIREMENT

Verification of the gross monthly entitlement must be obtained and entered in the system. This is the full entitlement amount without the deduction of the Medicare Part B premium. Sources of verification include: • Railroad Retirement Board; or • the entitlement letter.

The Railroad Retirement benefit is combined with the Social Security amount and is contained in one check for most railroad retirement recipients. Enter the Social Security amount and the Railroad Retirement amount separately in the eligibility system. Refer to Section 2840.15.00.