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Under current regulations, a protective filing may be established only if the claimant, the claimant’s spouse, or a person who may sign an application on the claimant’s behalf submits a signed written statement expressing intent to file, or makes an oral inquiry (20 CFR 416.340(b), 416.345(b)).  We propose to revise the regulations to improve service delivery and make it easier for vulnerable populations who may need assistance to establish protective filings. These revisions include removing the requirement to sign a written statement and expanding the policy to allow third party helpers to submit written statements or make oral inquiries.