20 CFR §218.2

As used in this part: Applicant means a person who signs an application for an annuity for himself, herself or for some other person. Application means a form described in part 217 of this chapter. Award means to process a form to make a payment. Claimant means the person for whom an annuity application is filed. Filing date means the date on which an application or written statement is filed with the Board. Tier I benefit means the benefit calculated using the Social Security formulas and is based upon earnings, both in and outside the railroad industry. Tier II benefit means the benefit calculated under a formula found in the Act and is based only upon railroad earnings.