POMS Reference

GN 00301: General Evidentiary Standards

TN 31 (01-11)

Procedure for recording translator’s notes

1. General information

  1. Use a separate sheet of paper when there is insufficient space to complete an entry on a translation form (SSA-533, SSA-704).

  2. Show “additional translator comments” as a heading and indicate the appropriate section and entry block of the translation form to which the comment applies.

2. When to use translator’s notes

Use to:

  1. Comment on the physical appearance or the format of a document.

  2. Point out discrepancies within the document, such as the type of change (e.g., erasure.) detected; what the original entry appears to have been, the type of ink (e.g., ballpoint pen used when the rest of the document is in fountain pen); and any other issues.

  3. Reconcile differences in the name shown for the claimant on the translated document and any other names used by the claimant.

  4. Explain a calendar conversion and any other issues with dates.

  5. Comment as to whether the document follows the customary format for such certifications and any other issues.

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GN 003: Evidence
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