Ask Larry

Do I Have A Right To The Original Document Reflecting How Social Security's Decision Was Made?

I suspect the WEP was not appropriately applied in my case. As a Canadian I receive OAS and CPP. I believe they erroneously applied WEP to the total when it should have only been applied again CPP. Do I have a right to the original document reflecting how they made the inital determination?

Hi,

I don't know what you're referring to by an 'original document', but Social Security should be able to explain to you how your WEP reduction was calculated. Social Security no longer maintains paper files in most cases, so everything relating to your claim is likely contained in their computers. You could try calling or visiting a Social Security office in order to speak with a representative, or you may want to consider filing an appeal of Social Security's determination if you are still within your appeal period (https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10041.pdf).

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Mar 5 2018 - 7:07am
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