, Continued (continued) c. Requests for Information from NPRC/RCPAC Make requests for information from the and Reserve Components Personnel and through the designated regional office Military Records Specialist using . The request should identify what records are needed (i.e., DD 214, service treatment records, etc.). 6. Handling Non-Claim Actions Introduction This topic contains information on handling non-claim actions, including: a definition of non-claim actions examples of non-claim actions, and processing non-claim actions. Change Date Initial content load September 2012 a. Definition: Non-Claim Actions Non-claim actions involve requests for information and information changes that need to be entered into the Master Record. b. Examples of Non-Claim Actions Some examples of non-claim actions are: changes of address direct deposit changes, and tracer action on missing benefit checks.
Change Date Initial content load September 2012 a. Regulatory References for Claimant Representation 38 CFR 14.629 provides information relative to service organizations, representatives, agents, attorneys, and the accreditation process. 38 CFR 14.630 provides an exception to the regulations governing representation in that it provides that “Any person may be authorized to prepare, present, and prosecute one claim…” b. Background on Claimant Representation Individuals acting under the provisions of 38 CFR 14.630 are commonly known or referred to as “lay-persons.” Information may be released to these individuals in the same manner it may be released to any other person holding power of attorney (POA) status. Continued on next page , Continued (continued) In order for this individual to be granted status under 38 CFR 14.630, the potential representative and the claimant must meet the certification requirements shown below. c. Certification Requirements for Claimant Representation Any individual seeking to represent a claimant under the provisions of 38 CFR 14.630 must execute . Both the claimant and the potential representative must: complete , and sign a written statement that no compensation will be charged or paid for services provided.
d. What Type of Information May be Released? Information may be provided to a “lay-person” in the same manner it is released to any other person holding POA status, provided they have properly completed and have executed the certification statement relative to fees. Important: If there is no record of POA designation, the “lay-person” should be considered a “third party” and appropriate privacy protocols apply. 8. Handling Media Inquiries Introduction This topic contains information on handling media inquiries, including: general procedures, and supervisory responsibilities. Change Date Initial content load September 2012 a. General Procedures for Handling Media Inquiries In the event you receive a media inquiry presented by telephone, Inquiry Routing and Information System (IRIS) inquiry, or personal contact do not, under any circumstances, attempt to answer the inquiry inform the inquirer that you will forward the media request to the local Public Affairs Officer (PAO) and the PAO will contact them shortly, and immediately inform a supervisor within your chain of command of the inquiry. b. Supervisory Responsibilities for Handling Media Inquiries The supervisor, upon receipt of the media inquiry, should immediately refer the inquiry to the PAO for a formal response.