We will consider your application a claim for benefits if it generally meets all of the following conditions:

(a) You must file on a prescribed form, as stated in §404.611. See §422.505(a) of this chapter for the types of prescribed applications you can file.

(b) You must complete and file the application with us as stated in §§404.611 and 404.614.

(c) You, or someone described in §404.612 who may sign an application for you, must sign the application.

(d) You must be alive at the time you file (unless one of the limited exceptions in §404.615 applies).

[69 FR 498, Jan. 6, 2004]