Ask Larry

Do I Have To Take Railroad Benefits Instead Of Social Security?

I want to collect social security my husband gets RR Annuity SS says I have to go through RR it's much less do I have to take it from the RR ?

Hi. No, if you're eligible for Social Security benefits you can apply for those benefits either online at ssa.gov, or by calling Social Security to make an appointment to apply by phone. However, if you're either receiving or eligible for Railroad Retirement (RR) benefits then Social Security will need to certify for benefit payments to the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). The RRB then makes any necessary adjustments to your RR benefits and then forwards your benefit information to the U.S. Treasury for payment.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Aug 30 2021 - 9:58am
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