I retired from the railroad 21 years ago on a disability. Since then I have worked enough to qualify for social security. Can I now draw social security on what I have earned the last 21 years.

Hi,

Yes you can, assuming that you are at least age 62. However, if and when you file for Social Security (SS) benefits the Railroad Board (RRB) will only pay you the higher of your Social Security benefit rate or your Tier 1 Railroad Retirement (RR) rate, in addition to any Tier 2 RR benefits to which you are entitled.

Before filing for Social Security, you should probably first check with Social Security to determine your potential benefit rate and filing options, and then check with the RRB to see what effect filing for SS benefits will have on your RR benefits.

Best, Jerry