(a) General rule. You must apply for benefits on an application that we prescribe. See § 422.505(a) of this chapter for the types of applications we will accept. See § 404.614 for places where you can file your application for benefits.

(b) What if I file a claim with the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB)? If you file an application with the RRB on one of its forms for an annuity under section 2 of the Railroad Retirement Act, as amended, we will consider this an application for title II Social Security benefits, which you may be entitled to, unless you tell us otherwise.

(c) What if I file a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)? If you file an application with the DVA on one of its forms for survivors' dependency and indemnity compensation (see section 3005 of title 38 U.S.C.), we will consider this an application for Social Security survivors' benefits, except for the lump sum death payment.