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P. Black Lung Benefits

Definition - Payments to a disabled worker, dependents, or survivors, usually as the result of working in a coal mine. At application and review, explore potential benefits for each budget unit member. If there has been coal mining work and the a/b has a lung ailment explore the possibility. 1. Verification sources a. Contact the U.S. Department of Labor, Black Lung District Office, 500 Springdale Plaza, Spring St., Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, 40353 for checks dated the 15th of the month. Attach a signed consent for release of information, or

b. Current check.

c. Award letter. However, an increase may have occurred since the date of the award letter.

2. Count the gross amount of monthly Black Lung Benefits for each budget unit member.

Q. Military Allotments

Benefits received by dependents of military personnel. Explore benefits if the spouse/parent of the a/b is in the military.

1. Verification sources: Attach a signed, valid consent form for release of information. a. Copy of the check or a current bank statement showing a direct deposit. b. Award letter. However, an increase may have occurred since the date of the letter. c. The a/b or financially responsible person may also, while still in the office and by using the public computers, if available, access the military allotment pay table and a copy of the service members Leave and Earnings statements from the website at, http://www.dfas.mil by clicking on “myPay,” "Military Pay Tables” or other appropriate links on this site depending on the information needed.