The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) will continue its operations and process benefits as usual during the upcoming government shutdown, according to a statement released on October 1, 2025. The RRB confirmed that both Railroad Retirement and Railroad Unemployment & Sickness benefits will be paid on time. Field offices are expected to remain open, though there may be reduced staffing levels. New claims and benefit applications will also continue to be accepted.
Unlike many federal agencies affected by shutdowns, the RRB is funded through railroad payroll taxes rather than annual government appropriations. This funding structure protects the payment of benefits from disruptions caused by government shutdowns.
“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 are advised that monthly retirement payments will arrive as scheduled, and unemployment or sickness claims can still be filed in the usual manner. While RRB offices remain operational, some locations may experience limited staffing.
TCU/IAM stated it would continue monitoring developments and provide updates as necessary. Members with questions about their benefits or filing a claim are encouraged to visit www.rrb.gov or contact their local RRB office.
