(a) In considering and investigating an application, the Secretary of State may use all appropriate means of investigation and discovery available under Article 2 (commencing with Section 11180) of Chapter 2 of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code.

(b) The claimant's acceptance of an award or compromise offer must be in writing and must be received by the Secretary of State within the time prescribed. Acceptance shall also require the claimant's execution of the documents necessary for the issuance of payment on the award including, but not limited to, an assignment pursuant to Corporations Code section 2293 and any forms required by the Controller for payment (e.g. STD 204 Payee Data Record).

(c) Discussions or negotiations regarding the terms of an offer to compromise within 60 calendar days of the offer shall not be deemed a refusal to accept the settlement. Failure to accept the offer within 60 calendar days or an express written refusal to accept the offer within 60 calendar days of the offer shall constitute a refusal to accept a settlement resulting in the denial of the application pursuant to Corporations Code section 2284.