Disability | RRB.Gov

Customer Service Plan

STANDARDS
When you apply for these benefits under the Railroad Retirement or Railroad Unemployment Insurance Acts, you can expect us to process your application within the number of calendar days shown below.

Type of application	We will make a decision within...

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General Conditions Under Which a Person is Entitled to a Railroad Retirement Widow(er)/Surviving Divorced Spouse Annuity

Current Connection

The employee must have a current connection to the railroad industry at the earlier of retirement or death to qualify you for survivor benefits under the Railroad Retirement Act (RRA). Otherwise, the Social Security Administration (SSA) would pay the survivor benefits.

Age Requirement

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When Military Service is Creditable G-177B

Certain military service (M/S) may be used in the same way as railroad service months to provide eligibility for, or to increase the amount of benefits payable to railroad employees and their survivors. Credit is given only for active duty service in the Armed Forces of the United States.

For M/S to be Creditable

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Child's Disability Benefits

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Q&A: Comparison of Benefits Under Railroad Retirement and Social Security

Annuity rates under the Railroad Retirement Act (RRA) are generally higher than the benefit rates paid under the Social Security Act, especially for railroad employees who have 30 or more years of creditable railroad service. These higher rates can be attributed to the additional retirement taxes paid by employers and employees covered under the RRA.

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How Work Affects Your Disability Annuity

Work in the Railroad Industry - Your annuity cannot be paid when you work for a railroad or other employer in the railroad industry.

Earnings of More Than $1,260 (After Deductions of Disability-Related Expenses) From Any Work - Your annuity cannot be paid for any month you do any work and earn over $1,260 after deduction of disability-related work expenses. This earnings restriction applies until the month you reach full retirement age.

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