The agency made modifications to the Supporting Statement to better describe the information collection and submission process. The agency also uploaded a Supplementary Document to provide greater detail regarding ERE functionality. The agency modified burden estimates as well.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
11/30/2026
36 Months From Approved
11/30/2023
6,183,548
0
5,376,998
1,030,591
0
896,166
0
0
0
When a new source registers to use the website, SSA or state agency employees conduct the registration by phone or in person, and then keys the information into ERE. After completing the registration process, the registered user can provide evidence to the agency, and may request payment for providing evidence through the ERE website. SSA and state agency employees request the medical and educational records collected through the ERE website. The agency uses the information collected through ERE to make a determination on an Application for Benefits. We also use the ERE website to order and receive consultative examinations when we are unable to collect enough medical records to determine disability findings. The respondents are medical providers who evaluate or treat disability claimants or recipients, and other third parties with connections to disability applicants or recipients (ex: teachers and school administrators for child disability applicants), who voluntarily choose to use ERE to submit information.
When we last cleared this IC in 2017, the burden was 896,166 hours. However, we are currently reporting a burden of 1,030,591 hours. This change stems from an increase in the number of responses from 5,376,998 to 6,183,548. There is no change to the burden time per response. Although the number of responses changed, SSA did not take any actions to cause this change. These figures represent current Management Information data.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.