What you Need to be Considered Married for Railroad Retirement

Have you ever felt married, but does the Railroad Retirement Board recognize your marriage? Welcome to another episode of the Highball Advisors Railroad Retirement Whiteboard. I'm John McNamara from Highball Advisors. Today, let's delve into the topic of marriage. Marriage holds significant importance for spousal annuities, survivor benefits, and even divorce-related spousal annuities. However, simply asserting your marital status to the Railroad Retirement Board isn't enough. They require specific documentation to access these substantial benefits.

When it comes to marriage, there are two primary criteria. First, if your state issues a marriage license and recognizes your marriage according to state law, the Railroad Retirement Board accepts this as valid. The second criterion involves the deemed marriage provision under the Railroad Retirement Act, which adds a layer of complexity. This provision requires that no conflicting claims exist, and you must provide documented proof of your marriage for your claim to be approved.

Preferred proofs of marriage include a marriage certificate issued by the state, a church-certified copy, or one certified by a justice of the peace. Notably, marriages performed outside the U.S., such as in Mexico, are not recognized by the Railroad Retirement Board. If direct proof is unavailable, secondary evidence like sworn statements from clergy, a divorce decree, or testimonies from two witnesses may suffice. Official documents such as insurance policies, deeds, or passports listing both spouses can also serve as evidence.

To avoid complications, ensure all necessary documentation is in order. While we hope for smooth sailing, it's wise to double-check to prevent any unforeseen issues. I've received calls regarding these matters, and they can indeed become complicated. If you found this information helpful, feel free to share it, and don't forget to subscribe for more updates. Until next time, stay safe, stay on track, and take care. Goodbye, everyone!

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Disclaimer: This article is provided for general information and illustration purposes only. Nothing contained in the material constitutes tax advice, a recommendation for purchase or sale of any security, or investment advisory services. Highball Advisors encourages you to consult a financial planner, accountant, and/or legal counsel for advice specific to your situation. Reproduction of this material is prohibited without written permission from Highball Advisors, and all rights are reserved from Highball Advisors, and all rights are reserved.