410.234—Interim provisions.
(a)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this subpart, a written request for benefits which is filed before January 31, 1972, and which meets the requirements of this subpart except for the filing of a prescribed application form, shall be considered a claim for benefits. Nevertheless, where a prescribed application form has not been filed, the Administration may require that such a form be completed and filed before adjudicating the claim. (See § 410.240(a).)
(b)
Notwithstanding any other provision of this part, where (1) a request has been made before the effective date of this regulation that a claim for benefits be withdrawn and (2) such request has been approved (see § 410.232 ), such claim may nevertheless be reinstated and adjudicated under the provisions of the Black Lung Benefits Act of 1972 (Pub. L. 92-303).