---
kind: "section"
citation: "20 C.F.R. § 217.3"
title: "20"
number: "217.3"
heading: "Need to file an application."
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/20/217.3"
---

# §217.3. Need to file an application.


In addition to meeting other requirements, a person must file an application to become entitled to an annuity or lump sum. Filing an application will—

- (a) Permit a formal decision on whether the person is entitled to an annuity or lump sum;
- (b) Protect a person's entitlement to an annuity for as many as 12 months before the application is filed; and
- (c) Provide the right to appeal if the person is dissatisfied with the decision (see [part 260](/cfr/20/part260.md) of this chapter).

## Notes

### Amendments

[47 FR 7647, Feb. 22, 1982, as amended at 52 FR 11017, Apr. 6, 1987]

### Authority

Authority: 45 U.S.C. 231d and 45 U.S.C. 231f.

### Source

Source: 47 FR 7647, Feb. 22, 1982, unless otherwise noted.

### Amendments

[47 FR 7647, Feb. 22, 1982, as amended at 52 FR 11017, Apr. 6, 1987]