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Other Forms You May Need

Additional Forms You May Need

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.

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After You Apply For Your Benefits

Notice of Railroad Retirement Board's Decision About Your Application

Using the information on your application and proofs, the RRB will decide if you can be paid.

If you cannot be paid, the RRB will send you a letter which explains:

why you cannot be paid; and
what you can do if you disagree with the reason you cannot be paid.

If you can be paid, you will receive:

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Proof Of Relationship

Proof of relationship must be given by each person applying for benefits as the child, parent, brother, sister, or grandchild of the former railroad employee. The best proof of relationship is a certified copy of the civil or religious birth record of the person filing for benefits showing the parents' names.

When the relationship involves a legally adopted child or the parent of a legally adopted child, the best proof is a certified copy of the decree or order of adoption.

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Proof Of Appointment As Legal Representative

Evidence of appointment as legal representative is required of anyone filing an application for benefits on behalf of the employee's estate. A legal representative can be the guardian, trustee, committee or conservator of an individual or the administrator or executor of an estate.

Proof of Court Appointment includes:

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Proof Of Military Service

Proof of military service may be a certificate of discharge, or any official military record that shows the dates of service. If you cannot locate the military service record, contact your local field office for help.

Creditable military service can be counted as if it were railroad service if the following conditions are met:

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Proof Of Payment Of Burial Expenses

To prove the payment of all or any part of the burial expenses you must either submit RRB Form G-273a or an itemized, receipted statement or bill from the funeral director and other persons furnishing goods and services. The receipt must identify the deceased person, be signed by the funeral director or other person to whom payment was made and give all of the following information:

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Proof Of Marriage

The best proof of a ceremonial marriage is the original marriage certificate. If you can not locate your original certificate, the following proofs are acceptable.

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Proof Of Death

Proof of death is required with all claims for benefits. If the death occurred inside the United States, the best proof of death includes:

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General Information

Evidence submitted in support of an applicant's claim should be:

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Furnishing Proof to Support Your Application

Every application for railroad retirement benefits must be accompanied by documentary evidence that supports the claim for benefits. The sections in this part discuss the types of acceptable evidence. If you are unable to secure the necessary information, please contact the nearest field office of the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). The people there will be glad to assist you.

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