Railroad Retirement Benefits
My husband worked for Amtrak for 40 years and retired at age 62. He passed away at 69. When I notified the RRB I was told that I am not entitled to anything until I retire, unless I make less than $24,000/year. Is that true? I have been struggling for the last year without his monthly income because I am still working.
Terry Says
Please write back to the email you receive and let me know your age. That’s a critical ingredient you left out.
Also, are you eligible for Social Security? Was your husband eligible for Social Security? If so, you could file for a window’s benefit on his account, and that amount depends on your age.
There’s so much you haven’t told me, so I can’t really give you any advice until I know more.
But in answer to your specific question, here are the rules for the RRRB widow’s pension — And they have NOTHING TO DO WITH OTHER INCOME –only with age! Call the RRB at:
Contact RRB: Call 1‑877‑772‑5772
Widow’s Annuity Rules
Full annuity: Available at age 60 (or earlier with reductions)
Reduced annuity: Available at age 50–59 if totally disabled within 7 years of the employee’s death
Any age: If caring for unmarried or disabled children under certain conditions
Marriage duration: Must be at least 10 years for certain benefits; remarriage may affect eligibility
