There are three forms which are sometimes needed in addition to the application Form AA-21. If, after reading the following sections, you think you need one of these forms along with the application and a copy of this booklet, please contact the nearest field office of the RRB.

Form G-273a, Funeral Director’s Statement Of Burial Charges

If you are applying for the lump-sum death payment as the representative from a funeral home, or if there are unpaid funeral home expenses and you are applying to authorize the RRB to pay the funeral home, you must submit a Form G-273a. The Form G-273a must be completed and signed by the funeral home director. If more than one funeral home was involved in the employee’s burial, and each funeral home is keeping a separate bill, a Form G-273a must be secured from each funeral home.

The Form G-273a can be used in any lump-sum death payment or unpaid employee annuity case instead of other proof of payment of burial expenses. However, it is required when there are unpaid funeral home expenses.

Form G-126, Election To Receive A Residual a Payment Instead Of Future Monthly Insurance Benefits Based On Service Under The Railroad Retirement Act

If you are the employee’s widow(er) or parent and you are not currently qualified to receive a monthly survivor annuity but will become qualified in the future and you are applying for the residual lump-sum, you must complete Form G-126 in addition to the Form AA-21. By completing the Form G-126 you are telling the RRB that you will give up all rights to future payment (that is, you will never receive a monthly survivor annuity based on the employee’s railroad work) in order to receive the residual lump-sum now.

Form G-131, Authorization of Payment and Release of all Claims to a Death Benefit or Accrued Annuity Payment

If you are eligible to receive a lump-sum death benefit or an annuity unpaid at death and your share does not exceed $500, you may complete Form G-131 instead of filing an application. Before filing this form, you will be notified of the approximate amount of your benefit.

By completing this form, you are authorizing your share of the benefit to another eligible person and waiving your benefit. You are not required to waive your benefit or rights to which you may be entitled. If you desire not to waive your benefit, you should file an application with the Railroad Retirement Board.

Like an application, Form G-131 must be filed no later than the second anniversary of the employee's or annuitant's death.