Policy and Systems

Beginning Date Of All Other Types Of Annuities

The annuity can begin on the latest of these three dates:

The month the employee died.
The month all necessary requirements for an annuity are met.
Six months before the month in which an application is filed.

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Beginning Date Of A Widow(er)'s Annuity

The beginning date of your annuity depends on several factors: the type of Widow(er)'s annuity for which you are applying, your age, and the date your application is filed at the RRB.

If you are applying for an annuity based on your age, your annuity can begin on the latest of the following dates.

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If You Are Currently Receiving A Spouse Annuity

If you are currently receiving a Spouse annuity from the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), you do not need to file an application for benefits; however, proof of death must still be submitted. After we have received all necessary information, your annuity will be converted to a Widow(er)'s annuity.

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Paperwork Reduction Act and Privacy Act Notices

This notice is given under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 and the Privacy Act of 1974. The Privacy Act requires that the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) tell you the following whenever we ask you for information:

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Part V - General Information

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Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Hotline

The RRB’s Office of Inspector General established its Hotline as a public service. The Hotline provides individuals with a means to report or discuss any suspected misconduct relating to the RRB, its programs or employees.

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Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability

Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) regulations, no qualified person may be discriminated against on the basis of disability. RRB programs and activities must be accessible to all qualified applicants and beneficiaries, including those with impaired vision or hearing. Disabled persons needing assistance (including auxiliary aids or program information in accessible formats) should contact the nearest RRB office.

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Important Notices

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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 parent's name.

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

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Records That You Should Keep

We recommend that you keep the RB-1 booklet, even after you file your annuity application. It contains important information concerning your entitlement to railroad retirement benefits.

You should also keep your:

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