The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) will continue its operations during the upcoming government shutdown, according to a statement issued on October 1, 2025. Members of the Transportation Communications Union/International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (TCU/IAM) were informed that benefits processing would not be interrupted.
The RRB has stated that both Railroad Retirement and Railroad Unemployment & Sickness benefits will be paid as scheduled. Field offices will remain open, although there may be reduced staffing levels. New claims and benefit applications will still be accepted.
This continuity is possible because the RRB is funded by railroad payroll taxes rather than through annual government appropriations. As a result, benefits for railroad workers are protected from disruptions caused by a federal shutdown.
Other federal agencies may reduce their services during the shutdown, but the RRB emphasized that retirement, unemployment, and sickness benefits for railroad employees are secure.
“Railroad workers and retirees should not have to worry about the stability of their earned benefits,” said TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea. “The RRB is funded separately, and that ensures our members are protected even during these uncertain times.”
Members were advised that monthly retirement payments would arrive on schedule and that unemployment or sickness claims could continue to be filed as usual. While RRB offices remain operational with limited staff, TCU/IAM will monitor developments and provide updates as necessary. For further information or assistance with claims, members can visit www.rrb.gov or contact their local RRB office.
