RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 1 of 312

6.8.1 Scope of Chapter 

Changes that must be made in large numbers of cases are accomplished with mass 

mechanical adjustment operations. In a mass adjustment, annuity information for affected 

annuitants is taken from the master benefit file (MBF) and a new annuity amount is 

calculated mechanically. 

The railroad annuity cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is performed in December to 

adjust the January 2 payment. The RRB also performs an adjustment in December to 

increase LAF E social security benefits for cost-of-living increases. Prior to 2006, 

retirement annuities were adjusted 1) in September (October 1 payment) in the AERO to 

include social security wages earned after the ABD, 2) in June (July 1 payment) in the 

RAIL to include ABD year railroad service and compensation and delayed retirement 

credits, and 3) in August, in the SALSA mass adjustment to issue separation allowance 

lump sum amounts. Beginning in 2006, RESCUE adjusts retirement annuities each 

quarter in response to any service and earnings changes posted to EDM. The RAIL, 

AERO and SALSA mass adjustments are no longer performed. 

Other mass adjustment actions are performed as needed in response to legislative 

amendments or budgetary restrictions. The most common adjustment is performed to 

reduce vested dual benefit payments in response to VDB funding limitations. 

6.8.2 RR Cost-of-Living Increase 

Annual cost-of-living increases have been paid on tier 1 since 1974. The increase has 

been payable on the benefit for December (January 2 check) since December 1983; prior 

to that the COL was added to the June benefit (July 1 payment). Between 1965 and 

June 1974, COL increases were paid as authorized by the Congress, but not on a fixed 

schedule. Tier 1 benefits are adjusted by the same COL increase percentage as is 

applied to social security benefits. 

Since June 1977, annual COL increases have been added to tier 2 benefits. The tier 2 

increase percentage is equal to 32.5 percent of the percentage payable on tier 1. Tier 2 

COL increases were paid each June from 1977 through 1983. In 1984, the tier 2 COL 

increase effective date was changed to December. A tier 2 COL increase has been paid 

each year except in 1985. In that year, no tier 2 COL increase was paid because funds 

were sequestered. 

In 2009, Railroad retirement annuities, like social security benefits, did not increase in 

January 2010 as there was no increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) from the third 

quarter of 2008 to the corresponding period of 2009. There was no increase in tier 1 nor 

tier 2 for 2009. Appendix G provides tier 1 and tier 2 COL increase percentages. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 2 of 312

6.8.3 Tier 1 COLA Calculation 

The mechanical operation increases the tier 1 PIA and the survivor family maximum share 

by the COL increase percentage. These amounts are then adjusted for delayed 

retirement credits and reduced for age, SSA benefits, public service pension and dual RR 

entitlement as appropriate. 

A. SSA OFFSET AMOUNT 

The tier 1 calculation performed in the RR cost-of-living mass adjustment operation 

uses social security benefit amounts which are provided by the Social Security 

Administration in November. The records provided by SSA are matched to the 

RRB's annuity records by comparing the SS claim number, the RR claim number and 

the beneficiary's own account number (BOAN) in SSA's MBR and the RRB's MBF. If 

a match occurs on any one of the three numbers and the BOAN, DOB (month and 

year) and name are the same at SSA and the RRB, the SS record is accepted as 

belonging to the RR annuitant. 

1. The benefit information provided by SSA allows the Board to adjust the tier 1 SS 

offset amount to reflect AERO increases which SSA has added to their benefit 

as well as the COL increase. If the annuitant has received AERO increases in 

his/her benefit, the correction of the tier 1 SS offset amount in the COLA 

operation causes the monthly annuity rate to decrease on the January 

2 payment. Annuitants who receive Social Security benefits which are paid by 

SSA (LAF C benefits) are sent form letter RL-51A (previously T-51) on 

December 1 if their monthly payment must be decreased because of increases 

they have received in their SS benefits. An example of the RL-51A (previously 

T-51: Exhibit 7) is provided in Exhibit 34. 

Annuitants are instructed to contact the Board if the benefit amount provided 

by the Social Security Administration and quoted on the RL-51A (previously 

T-51) is incorrect. If an annuitant questions the RL-51A (previously T-51) 

information, the following actions are taken: 

1) Field offices collect all SSA claim numbers upon which the annuitant 

receives benefits and the monthly benefit amount claimed by the 

annuitant. The information is forwarded to headquarters via email with 

subject " RL-51A Inquiry." 

2) The SSA claim numbers in the MBF should be checked for accuracy 

using the "SS Info" screen on PREH. Any necessary corrections should 

be sent to the Division of Statistical Services in the Bureau of 

Information Systems. Examiners should investigate with SSA to 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 3 of 312

determine the total benefit amount received by the annuitant. The RR 

annuity paid in the COL mass adjustment should be corrected if the SSA 

offset used in tier 1 was incorrect. 

2. The benefit information provided in November by SSA also allows the RRB to 

identify cases in which SSA has received a report of death for the annuitant 

but no report has been made to the RRB. The case is rejected in the COLA 

and listings are produced of these cases which show the SSA claim number 

and the month and year SSA terminated their benefits. Examiners send an 

assignment to the appropriate field office to investigate the death report after 

determining that the SS beneficiary and RRB annuitant are the same person. 

If the terminated SSA record does not belong to the RRB annuitant, SSA claim 

number information in the MBF should be corrected. 

3. Missing SSA benefit offsets are also identified in the COLA. If SSA benefit 

information is received for an annuitant but tier 1 is not offset for the benefit, the 

case is rejected in the COLA and listed for investigation. The listing shows the 

SSA claim number and type of benefit. Examiners should obtain SSA master 

benefit file (MBR) records for the cases and adjust the RR annuity. If the SS 

benefit does not belong to the RRB annuitant, the SSA claim number 

information in the MBF should be corrected. 

B. PSP OFFSET AMOUNT 

Prior to 1992 spouse and widow(er) annuitants were not adjusted in the COLA if tier 

1 was offset for a PSP, but the PSP did not reduce tier 1 to zero. The 

spouse/widow(er) was rejected from the mechanical operation. From 1992 through 

1995, the tier 2 COL was paid in these spouse or widow(er) cases, and only the tier 1 

COL was withheld pending the policing of the PSP amount. 

From 1991 through 1995, form letter RL-212 was released with policing form G-212 

attached as part of the COLA operation. The annuitant provided updated PSP 

information on the G-212 which allowed the examiner to adjust the case to pay the 

COL. See RCM 1.TU 3 TU and 2.T 1 T for information on the handling of form G-212. 

In 1996, the effective date of the COL increase payable on public service pensions 

paid by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) was changed to December 1st. 

The 1996 COLA calculated a COL increased PSP offset amount if the 

spouse/widow's PSP was paid by OPM, and the PSP was a recurring benefit. If the 

PSP was paid by an organization other than OPM or the PSP offset is based on a 

lump sum payment the annuitant received, the COLA subtracted the PSP offset 

amount in the RRB's records. If the resulting net tier 1 amount was greater than zero 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 4 of 312

and the PSP was paid by an organization other than OPM, the case was referred to 

the field service for policing. 

C. DUAL RR OFFSET 

In retirement cases, the spouse tier 1 is reduced for the spouse's own gross or net 

employee tier 1 as appropriate. In survivor cases, the widow(er) tier 1 is reduced for 

the widow(er)'s own net employee tier 1. 

Prior to October 1988, the dual offset amount in widow(er) cases was based on the 

widow(er)'s own employee tier 1 amount after reduction for SSA benefits but before 

reduction for age. In the December 1988 COLA operation, the tier 1 offset for dual RR 

entitlement was changed for widow(er)s who began receiving an annuity prior to 

October 1988. The offset amount was made equal to the net tier 1 amount from the 

widow(er)'s own employee annuity. Since the change in the widow(er) dual offset 

amount was effective October 1988, the COLA calculated a tier 1 accrual for October 

and November which was issued in January 1989. 

6.8.4 Tier 2 COLA Calculation 

The mechanical operation increases tier 2 for the COL as follows: 

1. 1974 Act employee - components 1 and 3 of tier 2 are increased. 

2. Spouse with ABD January 1, 1984 or later - the tier 2 amount before age reduction is 

increased and a new age reduction amount is calculated. 

3. All other retirement cases - the net tier 2 amount is increased. 

4. Survivor cases - the increase is added to the tier 2 amount before additions for dual 

entitlement restoration, spouse minimum guaranty and equalization. 

In the December 1983 and 1984 COLA operations, a takeback amount was subtracted 

from tier 2 as a fund solvency measure. The total amount subtracted in the two 

operations was equal to 5 percent of the net tier 1 payable in November 1983. The 

takeback amounts are permanent reductions in tier 2. 

No tier 2 cost-of-living increase was paid in the December 1985 COLA operation because 

the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act (PL99-177) suspended 

automatic increases in some federal programs. 

Note: Prior to enactment of PL99-177, approximately 6,500 manual December awards 

were processed with a December 1985 COL included in tier 2. In February 1986, a 

mechanical operation removed the December 1985 tier 2 COL effective February 1, 1986 

from all but 200 of the cases. The 200 rejects were corrected manually effective with 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 5 of 312

February 1, 1986 or a later month. PL99-177 prohibited recovery of the tier 2 COL paid 

for December 1985. 

In the December 1989 COLA operation, the tier 2 computational sequence of spouses 

with ABDs after 1983 was corrected so that all tier 2 COL increases are added to the tier 2 

amount after it has been reduced for takebacks and the RRA maximum. 

6.8.5 Retirement Temporary Work Deductions 

The temporary work deduction amounts withheld from retirement cases may be 

increased in the COLA operation. In most cases, the tier 1 work deduction amount is 

increased by the tier 1 COL percentage, and half the COL increased tier 2 is established 

as the new tier 2 work deduction amount. In some instances, the work deduction amount 

continues to be subtracted but is not increased. The work deduction is not increased if 

the individual tier 1, tier 2 and VDB work deduction components cannot be identified from 

the information in the MBF or if the MBF shows the annuitant no longer claims excess 

earnings and the work deductions should be removed. The tier 2 work deduction 

component is not increased if the component is a partial work deduction amount (less 

than one-half of the pre-COL tier 2). 

6.8.5.1 Survivor Earnings Suspensions 

Beginning in December 2001, survivor annuitants who are suspended for excess earnings 

are updated in the COLA if the annuity rate in PREH includes all prior costofliving 

increases and the case does not reject in the COLA. The new cost-of-living increase is 

added to tier 1 and tier 2. Because the annuitant is in suspense, the record is rejected 

with cause code 19. PREH will store the updated information; the following records reflect 

the COLA information: 

• 3210 tier 1 

• 3215 tier 2 

• 3235 rate 

• 3250 mass adjustment (calculation reject code 19) 

The cost-of-living information is only updated to PREH; the CHICO records are not 

updated. When the survivor annuitant can begin receiving the annuity, the annuity should 

be put into pay status using a reinstate-recertification award 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 6 of 312

6.8.6 COLA Rejects and Reviews 

There are three main stages in the COLA mass adjustment operation: the update of the 

tier 1 SSA offset amount using SSA's MBR, the calculation of new annuity rates and the 

certification of the new rate to the CheckWriting record. During any of these stages, a 

case can be rejected by the mechanical process. 

Cases are automatically rejected if a December manual voucher action (other than a 

onepayment-only award or an award affecting only the supplemental annuity) has been 

taken. The manual award will have paid the COL increase, and the manually calculated 

rate takes precedence over a mechanically calculated rate. 

Cases are earmarked for examiner review in the COLA operation if the accuracy of the 

mechanically calculated rate needs to be verified or if the payments made for months prior 

to December need to be corrected. 

Reject and review codes and explanations are listed in Appendix B. 

6.8.7 Tax Withholding Adjustment 

As part of the COLA operation Federal income tax withholding amounts are adjusted to 

reflect annual changes in tax withholding tables. 

6.8.8 SMI Adjustment 

As part of the COLA operation, the SMI premium amount is adjusted to reflect the 

annual change in the basic premium rate. The increase in an individual's premium 

amount is restricted by the cost-of-living increase amount in tier 1 and any SSA benefits. 

Cases are tested to determine if a variable SMIB premium should be established, except 

in the following instances: 

• Cases paid under the OM formula 

• Dual entitlement cases 

• Cases which reject in the mechanical operation 

• Cases in which tier 1 is not payable due to felony, alien suspension or deportation or 

cases in which tier 1 is terminated 

• Cases in which the RR annuity is in suspense 

• Lawyear 83 cases in which the age 62 tier 1 recalculation is due but has not yet been 

performed 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 7 of 312

• Spouses or widows whose tier 1 COL increase is withheld pending the necessary 

policing of the PSP amount 

For cases in these categories, the regular premium at the basic or appropriate penalty rate 

is established in the mass adjustment. 

If the Board is paying both a railroad annuity and an SSA benefit, the new premium will be 

deducted from the SSA benefit portion of the monthly payment if the premium is too large 

to deduct from the railroad annuity. 

6.8.9 COLA RUIA Clearance 

To avoid RUIA overpayments, stops are placed on RUIA records for the period December 

1st through December 31st if the RUIA claimant is shown as a railroad retirement 

annuitant. If such an annuitant files an RUIA claim for days in December, the stop on the 

record will prevent payment of RUIA benefits. A computer-printed notice is sent to the 

employee advising that payment of RUIA benefits is being deferred because of the 

expected COL increase in the retirement annuity. 

As part of the mechanical COLA operation, the December retirement rate is compared to 

RUIA records if the employee annuitant worked in the railroad industry in the last 39 

months and has a COL or pre-COL annuity rate less than the maximum RUIA benefit 

amount. 

RUIA records the COLA rates, and the RUIA benefits due the employees are computed 

and paid. A notice is sent to the employee to advise that either (1) the COL increase has 

been computed and the RUIA benefits are being paid with the correct reduction for 

retirement annuities, or (2) the case rejected in the COLA, the COL increase will be paid 

at a later date, and the RUIA benefits are being reinstated at the old rate. RUIA will 

advise these employees that the RUIA benefit overpayment will be recovered from the 

COL accrual at the time it is paid by OP. 

6.8.10 COLA Notices 

Prior to 1997, annuitants involved in the mechanical COLA operation received a check 

enclosure on January 2. The notice was mailed to the home address of annuitants 

enrolled in the direct deposit program. Form T-55 was sent to annuitants if the COL was 

paid mechanically; form T-56 was sent to those annuitants who were rejected in the 

operation, except annuitants rejected because the COL was paid on a December manual 

voucher. 

Beginning in 1997, an explanation of the cost-of-living adjustment is included in the annual 

rate verification letters, T-55, T-56 and T-57. The 2010 annual rate notices 31T (Forms T-62, 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 8 of 312

T-63, T-64 and T-65) were developed to address the zero cola. Please refer to IB 10-12 

for more information. 

Since no rate verification letter is sent to annuitants adjusted on December vouchers, 

examiners must provide COL, SMI and tax information in the manual award letter 

prepared for the December voucher. See RCM 6.8.1T3,T "Special Actions on December 

Vouchers." 

6.8.11 Records of The COLA 

A microfilm record of the mechanical COLA action was provided for each operation 

through 1991. Appendix A describes the information displayed on the film. 

G-358 folder notices were also provided for each COLA operation through 1990. The 

information on the G-358 is the same as the information displayed on the microfilm. 

Beginning with the December 1991, COLA, the mass adjustment information is available 

in the on-line Mass Adjustment Inquiry System (MAIS) in RRAPID. MAIS replaced the 

microfilm and G-358 records. See RCM 1T 6 T for details. 

The adjusted annuity rate information and SMI premium amount are loaded into the 

DATA-Q and MOLI database systems. The records in DATA-Q and MOLI before the 

COLA are replaced with new records after the operation is complete. This process 

normally takes from one to three days. Records are loaded in reverse claim number order 

(e.g. 700 series numbers first, six-digit claim numbers last); as the COLA records are 

loaded, they can be viewed on the CRT screens. 

Beginning with the December 1995 COLA, the results of the mass adjustment are 

available on the Payment, Rate and Entitlement History database (PREH) in RRAPID. 

6.8.11.1 RR Cola Voucher Numbers 

Cases adjusted in the RR COLA operation will be assigned a voucher number of 472 or 

473. A special voucher number of 471 is assigned to cases if the annuity rate is not 

adjusted, but the Medicare premium is updated. Voucher number 471 is assigned in the 

following situations: 

• the RR annuity rejects and the annuitant has a monthly Medicare premium deduction 

• the interim widow has a monthly Medicare premium deduction 

If voucher number 471 is assigned to a record, the voucher date on PREH and DATAQ is 

the RR COLA voucher date. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 9 of 312

6.8.12 Inquiries 

If an inquiry is received from an annuitant whose rate was adjusted in the COLA 

operation, IFR releases a RL-85 to the annuitant and sends the inquiry to the field. If the 

annuitant's rate adjustment rejected in the COLA, the inquiry is sent to the unit which 

has the file. Folders in claim files will be forwarded to the retirement post section or the 

survivor post section. 

If an inquiry is received by the field and the office cannot satisfy the inquirer, the field will 

contact headquarters via an HSL message directed to the unit which has the folder. The 

annuitant will be advised it will take 90 days for a response to be made. 

If the annuity was adjusted mechanically and the rate is correct, advise the field office that 

no further action will be taken. If the mechanical adjustment is incorrect or no adjustment 

was made, the manual award action serves as the response to the field's inquiry. No 

additional response is necessary to the HSL message unless the manual award cannot be 

processed within 90 days. If action will be delayed beyond 90 days, advise the field office. 

6.8.13 Special Actions on December Vouchers 

Since a December voucher establishes the January 1 monthly recurring payment rate, 

computations for all awards with accruals through November (December vouchers) must 

include the computation of the COL increased rate 

Manual payment of the COL increase requires special actions: 

A. SS Benefit Reduction - If the new SSA COL rate is not available to the RRB, 

compute the SSA benefit reduction for tier 1 purposes only as follows: 

Multiply the November pre-rounded SSA rate by the SSA COL percentage and 

round down to the nearest multiple of ten cents. Add the result to the November 

pre-rounded SSA rate and then round down to the nearest dollar. 

Example: The 12-89 SSA pre-rounded rate is 429.90. 

The 12-89 SSA rate is 429.00. 

The 12-90 COL is 5.4%. 

Step 1 - 429.90 x 5.4% = 23.20 (Rounded down) 

Step 2 - 429.90 + 23.20 = 453.10 

Step 3 - Rounded down 12-90 SSA COL rate to be used for tier 1 offset is 453.00. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 10 of 312

Document the above computation in the remarks section of the award form where 

the COL SS reduction is shown. 

Exception: In the event a pre-rounded SSA rate cannot be obtained from the 

information in file, use the dollar rounded November SSA rate to compute the 

December COL SSA rate. 

The COL-adjusted SSA tier 1 offset amount computed for use on a December 

award action is considered correct and final, unless the tier 1 computations must be 

redone for another reason. 

B. SMI Premium - At the time a COL increase is applied to the annuity, it should also 

be determined if a variable SMI rate will apply. 

Refer to RCM 3.7.T 3,TB, for information on the principle of variable SMI. Also refer 

to RCM 3.T 7,T Appendix D, for a detailed description of the conditions which will 

cause a variable SMI rate to apply. 

C. RUIA Clearance - Precede all updated COL annuity rates and SS benefit rates 

shown on a G-259 by a "#" sign. Enter "# 12-19--COL" in the remarks block. 

Discontinue the "# 12-19--COL" notation effective January 1. BUSI will assume 

that on a G-259 dated January 1, or later all rates furnished with COL date breaks 

include the COL increase. 

D. Award Notices - The award letter prepared for a December voucher must include 

the COL information as well as annual tax and Medicare information. 

1. COL Code Paragraphs 

(a.) December awards - Code paragraph 702 is included on December 

vouchers if a tier 1 and/or tier 2 COL increase is included in the next 

payment. Code paragraph 702 should not be used if the case does 

not have a December date break or the ABD/OBD is in December or 

later. 

(b.) January or later awards 

• Code paragraph 700 should be included on manual awards if the 

case rejected on the most recent mechanical COLA operation or 

the initial award is being made and the ABD/OBD is prior to 

December. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 11 of 312

• Code paragraph 701 should be included on manual awards if the 

case rejected in more than one past COLA operation. 

2. Tax Code Paragraph 

Code paragraph 702.1 should be included on all December vouchers. 

3. SMI Code Paragraph 

Code paragraph 973.1 should be included on December vouchers if SMI 

premiums have been and will continue to be deducted from the monthly 

annuity payment. 

6.8.20 SS Cost-of-Living 

The mechanical operation to pay the cost-of-living (COL) increase to social security 

beneficiaries is processed separately from the railroad retirement annuity adjustment. 

An extract of SSA's updated benefit records (MBR's) for RRB certified beneficiaries is 

matched against our social security payment inventory (SSPI), the record of all SS 

benefits paid by the RRB. SS benefits paid by the RRB by the first voucher cutoff date in 

December are mechanically increased in the SS COL operation. 

The SS operation follows some general rules when adjusting SS benefits. 

• If identifying information matches on both the MBR and SSPI records and the new 

MBR rate is greater than the current rate on SSPI, the SS COL operation pays the new 

MBR rate effective December 1. 

• MBR records which do not match SSPI records are sent to the PAM system. If the 

MBR matches a PAM record, the PAM record is updated with the December rate. 

• Any MBR which does not match a PAM record is matched against the orbit file of 

awards pending manual certification. If an MBR record matches an orbit record, a 

referral is produced, indicating that there is a pending SS award and giving the rates 

for manual updating. 

• If it does not receive an MBR record for an SS benefit in force on SSPI, the COL 

operation mechanically increase the SS benefit by the COL percentage effective with 

the December rate. 

• A referral is also produced for MBR records that do not match SSPI, PAM or orbit file 

records and for cases involving discrepancies in the identifying information or the 

payment status at either agency. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 12 of 312

• If the COL operation pays the December rate indicated on the MBR, the adjustment is 

made under voucher number 987. If the COL operation pays a percentage increase 

because it cannot match a SSPI record to the MBR, the adjustment is made under 

voucher number 988. If a SSPI record is matched to the MBR, but, because of 

discrepancies, a percentage increase, rather than the MBR rate, is paid, the 

adjustment is made under voucher number 985. 

• SSA applies rounding procedures to the MBR rates it sends to the RRB. Therefore, 

the COL operation pays the MBR rate and deducts SMIB premiums, if applicable, 

without any further rounding. However, if the SS COL operation pays a percentage 

increase, it rounds the December rate down to the nearest dollar amount before 

deducting SMIB premiums. 

6.8.21 Referrals 

The Social COL referrals are loaded to USTAR under work unit categories RSJ and RSV 

for retirement and SPG for survivor. 

There are two types of SS COL referrals: 

• Type A are rejects and requiring examiner handling to process the COL adjustment. 

These cases should be handled as soon as possible to prevent overpayments or to 

make a COL adjustment. 

• Type B are cases requiring examiner review. For these cases, the social benefit was 

adjusted in the mechanical COL operation but require additional review by an 

examiner. In some cases, FAST-S/T transactions should be processed or G-607's 

should be prepared to correct the SSPI record. 

There is a group of referred cases which are not loaded to USTAR, although referrals are 

produced for these cases, they do not require examiner handling. Most of these cases 

are controlled by some other means, such as PAM or KOR, and should be handled in the 

normal flow of work. 

6.8.22 Referral Format 

The format for the USTAR source screen is shown below: 

SEE EXHIBIT 9 

The referral contains information from both the MBR and SSPI records. Most items are 

self-explanatory. 

• Note that previous and current MBC (monthly benefit credited - formerly identified as 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 13 of 312

MBA: Monthly benefit amount) and MBP (monthly benefit payable) are shown in the 

MBR portion of the referral. The COL adjustment is based on the MBP amount. The 

only exception to this rule is the adjustment made for referral code 17. 

• The trust fund indicator (TF IND) obtained from the MBR is shown, as sell as the trust 

fund indicator obtained from SSPI. Code 0 is "unknown," code 1 indicates RSI, code 2 

represents DI, and code 4 indicates receipt of both DI and RSI benefits. 

• If a special code J, K or L is received from the MBR, it is printed on the 805 referral. 

However, these special codes, which indicate partial withholding or dual entitlement, 

are not considered in the COL adjustment, since they are sometimes unreliable. The 

display of these codes is simply informative to help you determine the status of the 

benefit payment. Code J is shown if a partial benefit is being paid. Code K is printed if 

the beneficiary is entitled to benefits on more than one SS account. Code K is 

displayed if both partial withholding and dual entitlement apply. 

• The current rate shown in the SSPI section of the referral reflects the COL adjustment. 

If no COL adjustment has been made, the previous SSPI rate equals the current SSPI 

rate. 

• If a payment is terminated or suspended at the RRB, a code appears in the T/S-IND 

item in the SSPI section of the referral. Code S (1) indicates suspension and code T 

(2) indicates termination. 

• The SS earmark is printed in the SSPI portion of the referral. This code represents the 

status of the SS benefit after the current SS COL mechanical operation. See RCM 

6.9.40 for a description of the earmark codes. These codes are listed in that section 

under item 67, "SS EAR MKS", Position 2. 

• No entries are made in the MBR section of the referral if MBR data could not be 

matched with a SSPI record. Likewise, the SSPI section has no entries if an MBR 

record has no matching SSPI record. 

• One of the following messages is printed at the bottom of each 805 referral. 

1. MBR RATE PAID 

2. SSPI PLUS PERCENTAGE INCREASE PAID 

3. REJECT - NO COL PAID 

These messages will follow one of the messages listed in 6.8.23 explaining the reason 

for referral. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 14 of 312

6.8.23 Referral Messages 

Each referral message is assigned a numeric code. The referral type and numeric code 

assigned to each referral message, as well as the handling required, is described below. 

 

REFERRAL 

CODE 

REFERRAL 

TYPE MESSAGES 

1 A 

MBR IN SUSPENSE - SS TERMINATED AT RRB 

No adjustment is made if the MBR indicates suspended 

status and the RRB record is terminated. Prepare a RR-3 

to notify SSA of the terminating event. Advise SSA of the 

paid through date, if applicable. 

2 A 

MBR LAF CODE E - SS SUSPENDED AT RRB 

Most of time, this referral is generated because of timing 

problems. SSA has changed the LAF code from S to E, 

but the RRB has not yet processed the reinstatement 

award. Check PAM and the MBR to determine the 

effective date of the adjustment and reinstate the SS 

benefit accordingly. 

3 A 

MBR LAF CODE E – RRB TERMINATED – AWARD 

PENDING ON PAM 

SSA has reinstated the SS benefit but RRB has not 

processed the reinstatement yet. Process the 

reinstatement or current pay award as necessary. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 15 of 312

4 A 

MBR LAF CODE E -SS TERMINATED AT RRB - NO 

PENDING PAM AWARD OR REFERRALSSA has the 

benefit in current pay status, LAF E. There is no pending 

referral for reinstatement or a current pay award at RRB. 

Check the termination code in our records and notify SSA 

of the terminating event. Provide paid through dates, if 

applicable. 

REFERRAL 

CODE 

REFERRAL 

TYPE MESSAGES 

5 A 

MBR TERMINATED – SS IN PAY STATUS AT RRB 

This referral is produced when the MBR indicates 

terminated status, but RRB has an active payment record. 

Verify reason for the MBR termination. Enter a FAST S/T 

transaction on the SS benefit. Adjust Tier 1, recovering 

as much of the LAF E SS benefit overpayment as 

possible. If the entire LAF E SS overpayment cannot be 

recovered, prepare a RR-3WD advising SSA of the 

remaining overpayment balance, including the reason for 

the late adjustment. 

6 A 

MBR TERMINATED - SS SUSPENDED AT RRB 

No adjustment is made if the MBR is terminated, and 

DATAQ indicates suspended status. FAST-S/T 

transactions should be processed to correct the DATAQ 

record. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 16 of 312

7 A 

MBR SUSPENDED – SS IN FORCE AT RRB 

This referral is produced when the MBR indicates 

suspended status, but DATAQ has an active payment 

record. The COL operation does not adjust the rate in 

force. Priority handling should be given to these referrals 

to resolve the discrepancy in payment status and to 

prevent possible overpayments. 

8 B 

MBR LAF CODE C – SS ALSO IN FORCE AT RRB 

If an MBR and a DATAQ record match on SS claim 

number and BIC, but the MBR contains a LAF code C, the 

beneficiary is receiving two payments - one from RRB and 

one from SSA. 

Review the case to determine which agency should be 

certifying payment of the SS benefit. If RRB is correctly 

certifying payment of the SS benefit, release an RR-3 and 

a T-3 to SSA via the priority fax process advising SSA to 

correct the LAF code on the MBR from “C” to “E”. In these 

situations, the SSA overpayment is the amount of the LAF 

“C” payments. RRB should not release a RR- 3WD in 

these cases. 

REFERRAL 

CODE 

REFERRAL 

TYPE MESSAGES 

If RRB should not be certifying payment of the SS benefit, 

terminate the SS benefit and notify SSA of any 

overpayment via RR-3WD. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 17 of 312

9 B 

MBR LAF CODE C – SS IN SUSPENSE AT RRB 

The same procedure described in code 8 above is used to 

generate this referral. If duplicate payments are 

discovered, but the DATAQ record is suspended, no 

adjustment can be made. Release a T-3 to SSA to change 

the LAF Code from C to E. After SSA has changed the 

LAF Code, benefits should be reinstated. However, if the 

LAF Code C status is correct and SSA should be making 

payments, terminate the RRB payments. 

10 B 

MBR LAF CODE C - INCORRECT BIC OR SS CLAIM 

NUMBER – SS IN FORCE AT RRB 

If an MBR and a DATAQ record match on SS claim 

number and BIC, and the MBR contains a LAF Code C, 

review the case to determine if both agencies are paying 

the same SS benefit. 

If the SS claim number or BIC on DATAQ is incorrect, 

prepare a G-607 to correct the record. 

If in fact both agencies are paying the same SS benefit, 

determine which agency should be paying the SS benefit 

and adjust the case accordingly. Be sure to notify SSA via 

RR-3. 

 

11 A 

MBR LAF CODE C - INCORRECT BIC OR SS CLAIM 

NUMBER – SS IN SUSPENSE ON DATAQ 

Prepare G-607's to correct the BIC or SS claim number on 

DATAQ or prepare RR-3 to SSA. If RRB is terminating 

the SS benefit, be sure to include the paid through date on 

the RR-3. . 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 18 of 312

12 NONE RRB PAYMENT RECORD INDICATES DUE PROCESS 

REFERRAL 

CODE 

REFERRAL 

TYPE MESSAGES 

This category of referrals is no longer produced. 

13 A 

PRE - COL SS RATE EQUALS COL MBR RATE 

If the pre-COL SS rate is the same as the COL MBR rate 

and the COL earmark does not indicate COL activity, 

review the case to determine if RRB paid the SS COLA 

rate too soon. Check PREH 3277 and imaging. If the SS 

COLA rate was paid too early, complete a RR-3WD and 

send it to SSA. 

14 NONE 

PRE-COL SSPI NOT EQUAL TO PRE-COL MBR -

PENDING RR-1E 

This referrals is obsolete. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 19 of 312

15 B 

PRE-COL SS RATE NOT EQUAL TO PRE-COL MBR -

NO PAM AWARD PENDING 

This referral is produced if the pre-COL SS rate is not 

equal to the pre COL MBR rate. Review the SS rates paid 

prior to the COLA to determine if any additional SS benefits 

are due. 

Note: If partial withholding to recover a SMI arrearage was 

previously entered on the SS benefit, the SS COLA wipes 

this withholding out so the examiner will have to reenter 

the partial withholding. 

16 B 

MANUAL COL PAID EXCEEDS MBR COL RATE 

A SOLAR award was processed on a December voucher 

and the rate paid is greater than the December rate 

shown on the MBR. The SS COL did not adjust the rate. 

Process a SOLAR award (and adjust Tier 1 accordingly) 

using the rate shown on the MBR. 

Exception: If RRB is paying a combined SS benefit and 

SSA has erroneously picked up payment of one of the 

benefits, do not adjust the SS benefit being paid at RRB. 

Instead, advise SSA via RR-3 to correct their records and 

re-combine the dual payment under the BIC A account 

number. 

REFERRAL 

CODE 

REFERRAL 

TYPE MESSAGES 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 20 of 312

17 B 

PRE-COL SS RATE > COL MBP RATE – (MBC RATE 

PAID BY COL) 

Most times SSA has a garnishment or PWH reduction in 

force, but RRB has not yet processed the adjustment. The 

SS rate is adjusted for the withholding in the COL. Review 

the case to see if the SS adjustment was applied timely. If 

not, notify SSA via RR-3. 

Even though the SS rate is adjusted in the COL, review the 

MBR to make sure the correct SS rate is being paid. 

If not, process a SOLAR award accordingly. 

18 A 

PRE-COL SS RATE > COL MBP AND MBC 

Possible dual entitlement at SSA. If RRB was paying a 

combined SS benefit and now SSA has picked up the 

auxiliary benefit LAF C, do not adjust the SS benefit at 

RRB. 

Instead, prepare a RR-3 and advise SSA that they have 

begun paying LAF C benefits erroneously. The LAF C 

benefits represent the SSA overpayment so do not 

complete a RR-3WD or T-3 in this situation. 

If the SS benefit has decreased for some other reason, 

adjust the SS benefit and release a T-3 as needed. 

 

19 A 

MBR LAF CODE E - NO RRB PAYMENT RECORD 

Check RRB prefix, MBR RAIL line, BOAN, DOD and any 

pending PAM transaction. If the RAIL line is missing or 

incorrect, complete a G-60S to correct the information. If 

any information on CHICO is incorrect, complete a G607 to 

correct the information. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 21 of 312

20 NONE 

MBR LAF CODE E - PENDING RR-1E 

This referral is produced if an MBR record cannot be 

matched to a corresponding SSPI or PAM record, but can 

be matched to an SS award pending on the orbit file. 

Since no payment is in force, no COL adjustment is made. 

REFERRAL 

CODE 

REFERRAL 

TYPE MESSAGES 

Before processing the SS award, update it with the COL 

rate found on the MBR. 

21 A MBR MATCHED TO PAM - PAM UNABLE TO PROCESS 

PAM has matched a record on the MBR but cannot 

process a COL adjustment for some reason (e.g., 

discrepant LAF codes or rates, dual entitlement, etc.). The 

benefit is probably terminated due to the employee’s death. 

Review the case to determine if any adjustment prior to the 

termination is due. Process a FAST S/T or SOLAR award 

as needed. 

22 B 

DUPLICATE PAYMENTS AT RRB 

Two records on CHICO/PREH contain the same SS claim 

number, BIC, and BOAN. If the BIC or BOAN is incorrect, 

prepare a G-607 to correct the record. Also, review the 

case to make sure duplicate payments are not being made. 

23 A 

COL EXCEEDS MAXIMUM % 

Check for a dual entitlement, partial withholding 

involvement or SMI withholding from the SS benefit. 

Adjust the case as needed. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 22 of 312

24 B 

DUPLICATE MBR RECORD 

If two MBR records are found with the same SS claim 

number and BOAN, and no match is made on SSPI or 

PAM, this referral is produced. Since no match to an RRB 

record is made, no adjustment can be processed. 

Notify SSA to take corrective action on the MBR. 

25 NONE SS IN PAY STATUS AT RRB – NO MBR 

Determine why there was no MBR match. Check the 

social security claim number and BIC on DATAQ and 

PREH. Prepare a G-607 to correct the SS claim number 

and/or BIC as needed. Also, check the RAIL line on the 

MBR. If it is missing or incorrect, prepare a G-60s to input 

or correct the information. 

REFERRAL 

CODE 

REFERRAL 

TYPE MESSAGES 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 23 of 312

26 A 

RRB PAYMENT RECORD INDICATES DUE PROCESS -

NO MBR 

Under normal processing circumstances, if a SSPI record 

is not matched with an MBR, the SSPI record is adjusted 

by the percentage increase to produce the new COL rate. 

However, if a due process code is present in the SSPI 

record, no adjustment is made. Follow the procedure 

outlined in referral 25 above to determine if the SSPI 

record has an erroneous claim number or BIC. If 

necessary, prepare form G-607 to correct the SSPI record. 

Pay the COL increase when the due process code is 

removed. 

27 NONE 

PARTIAL W/H IN FORCE – NO PARTIAL WITHHOLDING 

ON THE MBR 

Check to case to see if partial withholding of a railroad 

annuity or SMIB arrearage is being recovered from the SS 

benefit. If so and the required withholding is complete, 

prepare a SOLAR award to remove the partial 

withholding. If the required withholding is not complete 

yet, make sure the case is controlled to remove the partial 

withholding at the appropriate time. 

Also, the withholding could be for a SS overpayment that 

we began withholding for at a later date than SSA originally 

requested. If this is the case, advise SSA via RR-3 of the 

circumstances and provide them with the expected 

recovery date. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised June 2, 2023 Page 24 of 312

28 NONE 

MBR SUSPENDED OR DEFERRED - NO RRB PAYMENT 

RECORD 

This referral is produced if an MBR record is in suspended 

or deferred status and does not match a SSPI, PAM or 

orbit record. Consequently, no adjustment can be made. 

Follow procedures outlined in referral code 19 for handling 

referrals in this category. 

32 B MBR TRUST FUND = DI; RRB TRUST FUND = OASI 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 25 of 312

 

REFERRAL 

CODE 

REFERRAL 

TYPE MESSAGES 

The social rate is correct but is being paid from an 

incorrect trust fund. Complete G-607 to correct CHICO 

and a G-92 to transfer funds. 

34 B 

MBR TRUST FUND = OASI; RRB TRUST FUND = D1 

The social rate is correct but is being paid from an 

incorrect trust fund. Complete G-607 to correct CHICO 

and a G-92 to transfer funds. 

6.8.24 Employee Lag Recomputation 

Prior to 1989, railroad compensation earned in the employee's ABD year and any 

delayed retirement credits earned in the ABD year were included in the computation of 

tier 1 through an annual mechanical mass adjustment. The adjustment was effective 

with the month of January and was generally processed in the first half of the calendar 

year; accruals were issued for the tier 1 increase due from January up to the month the 

adjustment was performed. 

The LAG/DRC adjustment paid a PIA 1 that was based on the compensation reported 

on form G-88a by the railroad employer at the time the employee filed for an annuity. 

This PIA was computed at the time the initial SEARCH calculations were performed for 

the case, and the PIA was stored in the master benefit file (MBF). The PIA paid by the 

Lag/DRC adjustment did not reflect any changes in compensation which the railroad 

may have made between its G-88a report and its final report for the same year. 

The Lag/DRC adjustment was eliminated in 1989 when the RAIL operation was 

created. 

6.8.25 Annuitants Who Were Considered In the LAG/DRC 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 26 of 312 

 

Adjustment 

The Lag/DRC adjustment considered all employees who had ABD year earnings high 

enough to cause an increase in PIA 1. Age and service employees were not included 

in the adjustment until the year following the year the employee attained age 62. 

The Lag/DRC adjustment also considered employees who were over 65 in the ABD 

month and, therefore, accrued DRC's in the ABD year. 

6.8.26 Windfall Cutback 

Each fiscal year (October 1 payment thru September 1 payment), Congress will 

appropriate a certain amount of money to be sued to pay the windfall benefit. If the 

amount provided is less than the amount needed to pay the full windfall, the Board must

distribute the money evenly. Therefore, all railroad retirement annuitants who receive a 

windfall benefit in their payment will share the cutback proportionately. This means that 

each year, it is possible to have a different cutback percentage. 

A mass adjustment to either reduce or increase the windfall reduction percentage is 

scheduled each year for the 10-1 payment. The mass adjustment will include all 

annuities with a windfall, in current pay status in September, and vouchered in August 

of the current year or earlier. 

6.8.27 Preparation of Pre-Adjustment Vouchers and Form G96 After August Cut-Off 

All annuities with a windfall must consider the new reduction percentage for September 

or later accruals (October vouchers). This also means that mechanical and manual 

initials, reinstatements, recert-reinst, and recertification awards processed with an 

August accrual must set up the September payment (October 1 check) considering the 

new windfall reduction percentage. 

The new monthly October 1 rate minus the SMI premium should be used on any G-96 

prepared to stop the November 1 check or later check. (The G-96 will reject if the 

prewindfall cutback minus the SMIB rate is used. 

6.8.28 Check Rate after Windfall Cutback Too Small To 

Deduct SMIB 

In a few cases the check rate after windfall cutback is too small to deduct SMI 

premiums. In such cases, a listing is produced around September 4. Examiners 

should suspend the listed cases in order to stop the October 1 check from going out. 

The suspension automatically puts the annuitant on direct billing. The annuitant should 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 27 of 312 

 

be put into pay status as the windfall cutback rate as soon as possible with an 

explanation of the cutback in the reinstatement letter. 

6.8.29 Mechanical Clearance for Annuities Included In Mass 

Adjustment 

P&S will furnish RUIA a tape file with the September rate of all railroad retirement 

employee annuitants who last worked in railroad industry in the past 40 months and 

were selected for the mass adjustment. 

6.8.30 Type Of Notification 

A check insert is used to explain the new windfall percentage reduction effective each 

fiscal year (or for charges in a particular fiscal year). 

6.8.31 Special Categories Not Mechanically Adjusted 

• Interim Widows - If the widow is a spouse in the CHICO record at the time cases are 

selected for the mechanical adjustment, the claim will reject. Since widows are 

entitled to receive at least as much as they received as a spouse the month before 

the employee died, there are no overpayments in interim widow cases. 

• Partial Awards - Include both IMPACT and SPAR cases. RASI will pay the windfall 

cutback at the time the case is paid final. 

6.8.32 AERO Recomputation 

An AERO (Automatic Earnings Recomputation Operation) adjustment recomputes PIA 

1 and PIA 9 to include the latest social security wages which have been posted by the 

Social Security Administration. If these wages were earned by the employee in a year 

prior to the ABD year, the PIA increase is payable from the ABD. If the wages were 

earned in the ABD year or a subsequent year, the PIA increase is not payable earlier 

than January of the year following the year the wages were earned. 

• In age and service cases, other than law year 83 reduced 60/30 cases a PIA 

increase attributable to earnings in the ABD year or later years cannot be paid until 

January of the year following the year the employee attains age 62. 

• In law year 83 reduced 60/30 cases, the PIA cannot be increased for earnings in the 

ABD year through the year the employee is 61 until the first month the employee is 

62 the entire month. Any PIA increase attributable to earnings in the years the 

employee is 62 or older cannot be paid until January of the year following the year 

the wages were earned. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 28 of 312

 

• In disability cases, a PIA increase attributable to earnings in the ABD year or later 

years cannot be paid until January of the year following the year the wages were 

earned. 

The first AERO adjustment was performed in 1978. Appendix E provides a chart of the 

history of the AERO adjustments since that time. In 2006, the annual AERO 

adjustment was replaced by the RESCUE system. 

As the first step in the AERO adjustment, a record of wages for all employees is 

obtained from the Social Security Administration. Prior to 1993, a request was sent to 

SSA to obtain wage records; beginning in 1993, the wage records in the EDM database 

are used. A request is sent to SSA only if EDM has no wages for the employee or EDM 

has an indication the employee has multiple social security numbers. If wages are 

obtained directly from SSA for the AERO, the wage record on the AERO G-90 may not 

be the same as the wage record in EDM. 

The second step in the AERO process is the calculation of PIA 1 and PIA 9 by the 

SEARCH system using the updated wage record. 

NOTE: The AERO does not adjust disability employees if the wages being considered 

are earned in a year after the employee's ABD year and prior to attainment of age 65. 

Post ABD earnings may require withholding of a disability annuity. When the disabled 

employee attains age 65, (s)he is selected for AERO consideration. 

6.8.33 Annuitants Considered In the AERO Adjustment 

Beginning in 1994, the AERO adjustment is scheduled in September to adjust the 

October 1 payment to include wages earned in the previous two years. In most cases, 

the Social Security Administration posts wages for a year by August of the following 

year; in about five percent of its cases, SSA is not able to post the earnings until after 

August. Cases with this delayed posting are not included in the AERO until the 

following year. Each AERO operation looks at the latest two earnings years to insure 

that SSA's late postings are captured. 

For the operation to consider an employee, (s)he must be paid final as of July, and the 

AERO PIA 1 produced by SEARCH must exceed the current PIA 1 by $1.00 or more. 

Spouse annuitants are considered in the AERO if the employee is considered, the 

spouse is paid final as of recertification cut-off in September (August prior to 1996), and 

the spouse is eligible for a tier 1 adjustment. 

NOTE: As part of the EDP review process of spouse awards paid by RASI after 

recertification cut-off in September, examiners should determine if the employee was 

adjusted in the AERO, and if RASI used the AERO increased PIA for the spouse award. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 29 of 312

 

If the AERO PIA was not used, the spouse annuity should be recertified to reflect the 

AERO PIA 1 if the spouse is eligible for such an adjustment. If the employee receives a 

law year 83 reduced 60/30 annuity, the spouse is not eligible for the PIA 1 

recomputation until the spouse is 62 for a full month. 

If the annuitant has tier 1 work deductions in force, the case is adjusted in the AERO. 

However, since the additional earnings cause the tier 1 work deduction component to 

increase by the same amount as tier 1 is increased, the net annuity does not change. If 

only tier 2 and/or vested dual benefit work deductions are being withheld, the AERO 

adjustment is made and the annuity rate will increase. 

6.8.34 Annuitants Who Cannot Be Adjusted In The AERO 

The following categories of annuitants are considered in the AERO but the mechanical 

adjustment cannot be made in tier 1: 

• Annuitants who are suspended (unless the suspension code is 35 or 69) or 

terminated before FAST cut-off in September. Beginning in 1996, if the record is 

suspended to recover an overpayment from the October 1st payment (code 35 or 

69), the AERO will adjust the monthly rate and the AERO accrual will be released. 

ASTRO will then take its overpayment recovery action and reinstate the new rate. 
RCM 6.8 

• 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 30 of 312

 

Disability annuitants who have a worker's compensation or public disability benefit 

offset in tier 1. The effect of the additional earnings on the WC/PDB offset cannot 

be mechanically determined. 

• Employees whose earnings record has some wages that may be a duplication of 

railroad compensation, as determined by the SEARCH system. 

• Annuitants paid under the overall minimum formula. 

• Law year 83 reduced 60/30 annuitants who are not yet eligible for or are eligible for 

but have not yet received the tier 1 recalculation due at age 62. 

• Employees who have a percentage of their annuity garnished. Part of the 

employee's tier 1 increase may have to be paid to the third party. 

• Employees dually entitled to a spouse or widow annuity if the tier 1 of the auxiliary 

annuity is not completely offset by the dual entitlement reduction. The auxiliary 

annuity must be reduced in conjunction with the increase in the employee annuity. 

• Employees who’s PIA 1 must be modified for non-covered service pension 

entitlement. SEARCH cannot provide the modified PIA for the AERO. 

• Disability annuitants who have earnings between the ABD and the year FRA is 

attained. The intervening earnings must be monitored and work deductions may 

need to be assessed. 

Appendix K explains the reject and review codes used in the AERO. 

6.8.35 AERO Accrual Payment 

Generally, additional wages can be used in PIA 1 beginning in January of the year after 

the wages are earned. Because SSA does not post the wages until August or later, the 

AERO must pay a retroactive accrual amount. 

The AERO accrual is issued in the third week of September and represents the amount 

due from the effective date of the PIA increase through August. The effective date of 

the PIA increase can be one of several dates, depending on the employee's earnings 

record and the limitations of the mechanical adjustment. The effective date may be: 

• January 1 of the year the AERO is performed if earnings in the previous calendar 

year cause the PIA increase, or 
RCM 6.8 

• 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 31 of 312

 

• January 1 of the year before the AERO is performed if earnings in the second 

previous calendar year cause the PIA increase, or 

• The annuity beginning date, or 

The first month the annuitant is 62 the entire month (applies only to law year 83 

reduced 60/30 cases), or 

• The month the annuitant became entitled to social security benefits, the SSA offset 

amount changes, or the SSA terminates, or 

• The month the spouse becomes entitled to a public service pension, the PSP offset 

amount changes, or the PSP terminates, or 

• The month the spouse becomes entitled to an employee annuity, or 

• The month all the delayed retirement credits currently on record are payable 

Note: Prior to the October 1, 1994 AERO, the accrual effective date could have been 

December 1 of the year prior to the year the AERO adjustment was performed if the 

annuitant rejected in COLA operations and had not yet been adjusted manually. 

If the employee had earnings in both of the last two years and both years increase PIA 

1, the AERO will pay the later increase from January of the current year. The case is 

earmarked with review code 40 so that the increase due for the previous year can be 

paid. 

In some situations, the October 1 monthly recurring payment will be adjusted to include 

the tier 1 increase, but the accrual cannot be paid. This is true in the following 

situations: 

• the annuitant is entitled to social security benefits which are paid by the Social 

Security Administration (LAF C benefits), and those SSA benefits can increase 

because of the employee's earnings ("A" benefits for the employee or "B" benefits 

for the spouse), or 

• tier 1 work deductions, though no longer in effect, were withheld for some months in 

the accrual period, or 

• tier 1 is offset for SSA benefits, but the SSA date of current entitlement is blank in 

PREH (3205-SS-BENF-CURR-ENT-DT) 
RCM 6.8 

• 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 32 of 312

 

Prior to 1986, the AERO accrual was issued the month after the recurring rate was 

adjusted. The accrual may not have been released if the case was suspended in that 

month. SAMM tapes can be used to confirm that the accrual shown on the AERO 

microfilm was actually released. 

In the 1984 and 1985 AEROs the accrual may have been withheld if excess earnings 

were revealed during EDP policing. 

In the 1984 AERO, the accrual was withheld if there were excess earnings in 1981. 

The SAMM tape labeled "9-84 AERO ONE PAY" can be used to confirm the release 

of the accrual. 

• In the 1985 AERO, the accrual was withheld if there were excess earnings in 1982 

and tier 1 was not offset for SSA benefits at the time the AERO was performed. 

The SAMM tape labeled "9-85 AERO ONE PAY" can be used to confirm the release 

of the accrual. 

Beginning in 1986, the AERO accrual is released in the month in which the recurring 

rate adjustment is made. If an accrual amount is shown on the AERO microfilm or 

MAIS or PREH, that accrual was released unless the annuity is in code 98 suspended 

status at the time the AERO accrual is issued. In code 98 situations, the AERO accrual 

is added to the undeliverable amount being accumulated, and it will be issued at the 

time a corrected address is processed. If the annuity must be reinstated manually 

because a corrected address is not received within three months of the suspension 

date, the AERO accrual should be issued as part of the award. 

The AERO accrual is deposited with the financial organization if the annuitant is 

enrolled in the direct deposit program. Otherwise, a check is sent to the annuitant's 

home address. 

6.8.36 Calculation Of The AERO Accrual 

The AERO adjustment calculates the increased net tier 1 to be included in the recurring 

monthly rate payable for September. The rate increase amount is computed by taking 

the difference between the increased net tier 1 and the pre-adjustment net tier 1. This 

amount is multiplied by the number of months in which the new monthly rate applies; 

the new monthly rate applies from the later of the accrual effective date or December 

1st of the previous year. 

The accrual period covers more than one date break if the accrual effective date is 

before December 1st of the previous year. The cost-of-living increase is removed from 
RCM 6.8 

• 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 

Page 33 of 312

 

the net tier 1 increase amount computed for the new monthly rate. The result is 

multiplied by the number of months between the accrual effective date and November 

of the previous year. 

The accrual amounts computed for each date break are added to determine the total 

accrual to be paid. 

Example: The October 1, 1998 AERO computes a PIA increase payable effective 

January 1, 1997. The net tier 1 computed by the AERO for inclusion in the October 1 

payment is $626.00. The annuitant was receiving a net tier 1 of $593.00. 

The net tier 1 increase of $33.00 included the December 1997 COL increase of 2.1 

percent. To determine the net tier 1 AERO increase payable for months prior to 

December 1997, $33.00 was divided by 1.021, producing an amount of $32.40. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 34 of 312

 

The total AERO accrual payment was calculated as follows: 

$32.40 X 11 months from January through November 1997 = $356.40 

$33.00 X 9 months from December 1997 through August 1998 = 297.00 

Total accrual = $653.40 

This AERO accrual process does not always produce whole dollar net tier 1 increase 

amounts. Examiners should not adjust tier 1 solely to round the increase amounts paid 

by the operation. 

6.8.37 Aero G-90 Forms 

Prior to 2001 AERO, G-90s were printed for all cases in which there was an increase in 

the PIA 1 or PIA 9, including those that reject from the AERO operation. Beginning in 

2001, AERO G90s are no longer printed; they are available in GOLD. 

The paper AERO G-90 had the caption," (YEAR) AERO, Associate and File Down," in 

item 1U. The year shown was the calendar year in which the PIA increase was 

payable. For example, the G-90 forms produced for the May 1, 1991 AERO displayed 

"1990 AERO, Associate and File Down" in item 1U. The 1991 AERO added 1989 

wages to PIA 1 so the increase was payable effective January 1, 1990. The last 

earnings year considered in the computation of the PIAs was the year immediately 

preceding the year shown in item 1U. 

On GOLD the Messages block provides the information previously found in item 1U of 

the paper G90. For the 2001 AERO, the Message was “2001 AERO” indicating that 

earnings through 2000 were considered in the PIA. Beginning with the 2002 AERO, the 

Messages block shows “AERO (year)”. The year indicates the last earning year 

considered in the computation of the PIAs. 

The last earnings year considered in the computation of the PIAs is the most recent 

wage year posted by SSA for most cases. In rare instances, SSA may have collected 

and posted wage information for a later year; however, the AERO ignores any wages 

posted to years after the year in the Messages block on GOLD. 

The wage amounts used by the AERO are those posted by SSA as of the “SS reply” 

date (item 3O of paper G90s; SS Reply block on GOLD). If SSA made any corrections 

to the wage record since that date, those corrections will not be considered by the 

AERO. Examiners should compare the SS reply date of an AERO G90 to the SS reply 

date on other current G-90s. For manual award actions, use the G-90 with the latest SS 

reply date. 

Prior to 2002, AERO PIA 1 amounts were provided as follows: A. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 35 of 312

 

All cases except reduced lawyear 83: 

1. ABD year was two or more years before the year shown in item 1U of a 

paper G90 or in the Messages block on GOLD: 

The first PIA 1 was computed using earnings through the second year prior 

to the year shown. The PIA effective date ("Recomp Eff.” On paper G90s; 

“Eff Dt” on GOLD) was shown as January 1 of the year before the year 

shown in item 1U or the Messages block. The second PIA 1, if any, was 

computed using earnings through the year before the year shown in item 

1U or the Messages block. The effective date for this PIA was shown as 

January 1 of the year shown in 1U or the Messages block. 

2. ABD year was the year before the year shown in item 1U of a paper G90 or 

in the Messages block on GOLD: 

One PIA 1 was computed using earnings through the ABD year. The 

effective date for the PIA was shown as January 1 of the year following the 

ABD year. 

3. ABD year was the year shown in item 1U of a paper G90 or in the 

Messages block on GOLD: 

The first PIA 1 was computed using earnings through the year before the 

ABD year, and it was payable on the ABD. No effective date was shown for this PIA. 

The second PIA 1, if any, was computed using earnings through the ABD year. The 

effective date for this PIA was shown as January 1 of the year after the ABD year. B. 

Reduced lawyear 83 cases: 

1. Employee attained age 62 two or more years before the year shown in item 

1U of a paper G90 or in the Messages block on GOLD: 

The first PIA 1 was computed using earnings through the second year prior 

to the year shown. The effective date of the PIA was shown as January 1 

of the year before the year shown in item 1U or the Messages block. The 

second PIA 1, if any, was computed using earnings through the year before 

the year shown in item1U or the Messages block. The effective date for 

this PIA was shown as January 1 of the year shown in item 1U or the 

Messages block. 

2. Employee attained age 62 before October of the year shown in item 1U of a 

paper G90 or in the Messages block of GOLD: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 36 of 312

 

The first PIA 1 was computed using earnings through the year the 

employee was age 61, and it was payable from the first month the 

employee was 62 for the full month. No effective date was shown for this 

PIA. The second PIA 1, if any, was computed using earnings through the 

year of attainment 

of age 62. The effective date for this PIA was shown as January 1 of the 

year after the employee attained age 62. 

3. Employee attained age 62 after September of the year shown in item 1U of 

a paper G90 or in the Messages block on GOLD: 

One PIA 1 was computed using earnings through the year prior to the ABD 

year. The PIA was payable on the ABD, and no effective date was shown. 

The PIA 1 shown on AERO G90s prior to 2002 may actually be payable from an 

earlier date than the effective date shown on the G90. Examiners should verify 

the date against the earnings record. 

The PIA displayed next to the number 5 in item 10A of a paper AERO G-90 (or in 

the PIA 5 block on GOLD) was the PIA used as the basis for the tier 1 amount 

being paid prior to the AERO adjustment. This PIA which was compared to the 

PIA(s) calculated by SEARCH to determine if an increase was payable. 

Paper G-90 forms were printed for adjusted cases and all rejected cases except 

reject codes 01 and 05. 

Beginning with the 2002 AERO, the AERO G90s on GOLD provide up to 19 

occurrences of PIAs 1 and 9. The most recent recomp PIA is shown and up to 18 

earlier PIA amounts. The effective dates for each PIA are accurate. 

Unlike G-90s produced daily by SEARCH (for RASI, for a G-60 request), most mass 

adjustment G-90s are not kept in the orbit file which PREH uses to update G-90 

information. AERO G-90s are not orbited if the AERO adjusts the case; the G-90 

information for adjusted cases is entered into PREH as part of the AERO update to the 

database. AERO G-90s are not orbited if the case is rejected because the AERO 

SEARCH calculations may not be correct (reject codes 16, 23, 26, 29, 30, 31, 37, 39, 

62, 65, 68, 70, 74, 75, 80, 81, or 84). Effective with the 1998 AERO, the G-90 

information for all other AERO reject codes is placed on the PREH orbit file. When the 

case is adjusted, the AERO G-90 date can be shown on the ROC award; PREH will 

update information in the normal manner. 

NOTE: If the employee was paid final before April 28, 1994, the FAMC on the AERO 

G90 is not placed on the orbit file. SEARCH computes the FAMC in all cases using new 

rules which do not apply to these cases. The tier 2 basic amount on the AERO G-90 is 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 37 of 312

 

not placed on the orbit file. The amount is not correct if the employee has military 

service that is creditable as RR service and was used as RR service. 

Some AERO G90s contain a message indicating re-entry B actions are needed. These 

G90s are not sent to CCU automatically. Examiners should forward a G-563 to CCU if 

tier 1 is reduced for work deductions currently or in the past and railroad earnings 

before 1975 are different on the AERO G90 compared to earlier G90s. CCU must 

compute PIA 17 in this situation. 

6.8.38 AERO Adjustment Notices 

Employees are notified of the tier 1 adjustment and the retroactive accrual payment with 

form T-13, and spouses receive form T-14. Samples of the notices can be found in 

Exhibits 2 and 3. 

6.8.39 Records of the AERO Adjustments 

Various records are produced to document the AERO adjustment. 

1. Microfilm - a microfilm record of each AERO adjustment was produced through 

May 1991. The film uses the standard mass adjustment information format 

described in Appendix A, Section I. The film title gives the date of the AERO 

adjustment and the wage year that was the focus of the operation. 

Codes are displayed on the microfilm to indicate the AERO accrual effective 

date. The chart in Appendix E provides the codes and corresponding dates for 

all AERO adjustments. 

The AERO microfilm displays all pertinent tier 1 data. Only net tier 2 and net 

vested dual benefit amounts are shown for these annuity components since the 

AERO does not adjust those components. 

2. G-358 - folder notices were produced for each AERO adjustment through May 

1990. The G-358 forms show the same information as the microfilm. 

3. DATA-Q - the adjusted monthly recurring rate is displayed on DATA-Q. The rate 

is identified by a September voucher date and a mass adjustment voucher 

number 472 or 473. 

If the AERO pays an accrual amount, the amount of the accrual is displayed 

under "ACCRUAL" on the DATA-Q screen. If the "ACCRUAL" field is blank, the 

AERO accrual rejected. 

Prior to 1998, DATAQ displayed earmarks for cases rejected or coded for review 

in the AERO. Effective with the 1998 AERO, these earmarks are no longer 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 38 of 312

 

carried on DATAQ. The PREH mass adjustment screen provides information on 

reject and review cases. 

4. Beginning with the May 1991 AERO, the mass adjustment information is 

available on the on-line Mass Adjustment Inquiry System (MAIS) in RRAPID. 

MAIS replaced the microfilm and G-358 records. See RCM 16 for details. 

Effective with the October 1996 AERO, MAIS is no longer updated for the AERO. 

The AERO information can be found in PREH. 

5. Beginning with the October 1995 AERO, the adjustment information is available 

in the PREH database. For non-rejected cases, the following records are posted 

to the database: 

• Tier 1 record(s) with a beginning date which reflects the accrual effective date 

from the AERO adjustment. If the accrual effective date is before December 

of the previous year, two tier 1 records are posted for the AERO. 

• Rate record(s). Two records are posted if the accrual effective date is before 

December of the previous year. 

• An accrual record if the AERO paid an accrual amount. The accrual effective 

date is shown in this record. 

• A new recurring payment record 

• A deduction record if the annuitant's payment is reduced for tier 1 work 

deductions or tax withholding and the tax amount changes 

• A mass adjustment record 

For rejected cases, a mass adjustment record is posted to the database. 

In three situations, the mass adjustment record shows a calculation reject code 

(3250-MASS-ADJ-CALC-REJ-CD) but the adjustment result code 

(3250MASSADJ-RESULT-CD) is '1', or adjusted. No action is needed in these 

situations: 

• Code 88 is shown if the PIA increase did not produce an increase in the 

monthly rate. This happens if 1) tier 1 is reduced to zero by an offset or 2) 

tier 1 work deductions are in force 

• Code 01 is shown if the AERO earnings increased the years of coverage for 

PIA 1, but not the amount of the PIA 

• Code 05 is shown if the earnings in the AERO year (eg., for the 1998 AERO, 

1997 was the AERO year) were: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 39 of 312

 

• too low to increase the PIA. The earnings shown on EDM for the AERO year 

are less than the amount shown in PREH in 3300-PIA-1-LOWCOMPUYRAMT. 

• already included in tier 1. The earnings shown on EDM for the AERO year 

are greater than or equal to the amount shown in PREH in 3300-PIA1-

LOWCOMPU-YR-AMT. 

If the recurring rate adjustment is made by the AERO, but the accrual is rejected, 

3250-MASS-ADJ-SPEC-2-CD on the PREH screen shows "A" followed by the 

accrual reject code. 

6.8.40 Tier 2 Increase (Additional Compensation and/or 

Service Months) 

Background - Due to the untimely reporting of compensation and/or service months, a 

process was developed to identify and calculate a new gross tier 2 from AERO 

SEARCH activity. 

Purpose - The process identifies cases in which service and/or compensation was not 

reported in time for the RAIL mass adjustment. 

When will this occur - The process is performed in September of each year. 

Selection - Cases are selected under the following conditions. 

• Employee is not in terminated status. 

• Compensation is reported in the current year less 1 or the current year less 2, i.e., 

current year 1998 - employee selected if compensation is reported for 1997 or 1996. 

• Annuity beginning date (ABD) is in the current year less 1 or the current year less 2, 

i.e., current year 1998 - employee selected if ABD is in 1997 or 1996. 

• Tier 2 increase is greater than $1.00. 

• Employee will not be selected in the next RAIL mass adjustment (i.e., 1999 RAIL). 

 

Tracking Cases identified are not earmarked on PREH. They are available on 

retirement STAR. 

STAR The following is located in the remarks section in retirement STAR. 

Display Function 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 40 of 312

 

MS Number of military service months. 

RRMOS Number of railroad service months. 

TOTMOS Number of military service months plus railroad service used to compute 

gross tier 2. 

AMC New average monthly compensation amount. 

Gross T2 New gross tier 2. 

Examiner 

 

The cases identified may be handled without the folder. The handling 

information used to compute the gross tier 2 is available in the 

retirement STAR remarks section. When adjusting tier 2 consider the 

following: 

• Vested dual benefit reduction. 

• LPE work deduction. 

• RRA maximum reduction, etc. 

If military service is involved, verify the number of months with: 

Database Screen 

 EDM MILSERV, PF22 

 PREH RHMLTRY (3305) 

Note: Consider any other adjustments that may be necessary, i.e., AERO 

reject/review pending, entitlement or adjustment to supplemental annuity, etc. 

Folder A screen print of the retirement STAR screen is to be used as document 

folder documentation of tier 2 calculation. 

6.8.44 RAIL Adjustment 

Prior to May 1988, railroad lag service and compensation was collected from railroad 

employers as part of the initial application and payment process of individual 

employees. This step contributed to delays in initially paying retirees. 

Beginning in May 1988, the Board stopped collecting lag information at the time the 

employee files for benefits, as long as the lag service is not required for eligibility. Lag 

service and compensation are now included in annuities through an annual mass 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 41 of 312

 

adjustment called the RAIL (Retirement Adjustment to Include Lag). The RAIL includes 

service months and compensation earned in the prior year which are posted to EDM as 

of May 1st. 

The first RAIL operation was performed in 1989; it included 1988 railroad service and 

compensation posted to EDM by May 1, 1989. The first RAIL considered employees 

(and their spouses) who last worked in the railroad industry in 1988 or 1989. 

The RAIL adjusts tier 1 and/or tier 2 to include increases resulting from the addition of 

lag service and compensation. The RAIL operations in 1989 through 1995 adjusted the 

September 1 payment; beginning in 1996, the RAIL adjusts the July 1 payment. 

Appendix F provides a chart of the RAIL history to date. 

In 2006, the annual RAIL adjustment was replaced by the RESCUE system. 

6.8.45 Adjustment of DRCs In The RAIL 

Delayed retirement credits earned by the employee in the ABD year are added to tier 1 

in the RAIL, regardless of when the employee last worked in the railroad industry. 

6.8.46 Annuitants Selected for the RAIL 

The RAIL considers all employees paid final through the date in May when SEARCH 

begins to use service and compensation earned in the previous year (for RAIL jobs 

1989-95, employees paid final through the end of May were considered). Employees 

are selected for the RAIL if they last worked in the railroad industry in the current year 

or the previous year, or they last worked in the railroad industry two years ago but the 

annuity beginning date is in the current year or the previous year. The RAIL also 

considers employees if the ABD was in the previous year and the employee was 

between ages 65 and 70 on the ABD. 

Spouses are considered in the RAIL if the employee is considered, and the spouse was 

paid final before recertification cut-off-in June (July for RAIL jobs 1989-95). 

NOTE: As part of EDP review of RASI spouse awards paid final after the cut-off in 

June, examiners should determine if the employee is adjusted in the RAIL. If so, the 

spouse rate should be recertified manually. 

The mass adjustment considers all types of employees who have lag railroad service, 

including reduced 60/30 annuitants who are under age 62. If a reduced 60/30 annuitant 

has attained age 62 but has not yet received the tier 1 recalculation due at age 62, the 

RAIL performs the age 62 recalculation. 

Beginning in 1996, the RAIL uses a master benefit file which reflects all award activity 

through the June pre-period, so cases will not reject just because there is an award 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 42 of 312

 

action in the same month as the mass adjustment. Cases in suspense in June will 

reject, except ASTRO single month suspensions (suspension codes 35 and 69). 

Examiners should consider lag railroad service in preparing July or later vouchers to 

reinstate suspended cases. 

Appendix L explains the reject and review codes used in the RAIL. 

6.8.47 RAIL Tier 1 Computation 

A PIA 1 is calculated by the SEARCH system for the RAIL. SEARCH will compute the 

PIA using all compensation and wages posted to the employee's account for years prior 

to the year the RAIL operation is performed. For example, the 1996 RAIL considered 

all compensation and wages posted as of May 1996 for years through 1995. The new 

PIA is used in the tier 1 calculation only if it exceeds the current PIA by at least $1.00. If 

the new PIA increases or decreases by less than $1.00, no tier 1 calculation is 

performed. If the PIA decreases by $1.00 or more, the case is rejected. 

The spouse tier 1 calculation is based on the same PIA as the employee tier 1 except in 

reduced 60/30 cases if the employee is over 62 but the spouse is under 62. If the 

employee attains age 62 in the ABD year, the ABD and age-62 PIA are the same; the 

PIA 1 used for the spouse tier 1 is the PIA provided by SEARCH reduced by the 

employee's ABD age reduction factor. If the employee attains age 62 after the ABD 

year SEARCH does not provide the ABD PIA upon which the spouse tier 1 should be 

based. In this instance the employee's ABD PIA in the Payment, Rate, Entitlement and 

History database (PREH) is used for the spouse; no change is made in the spouse tier 

1. 

In age and service annuities, tier 1 cannot include earnings in the year the annuity 

begins as long as the employee is under age 62. For full 60/30 employees who retire in 

the lag year, the RAIL makes any change necessary to the ABD tier 1 resulting from 

changes in earnings for years before the ABD year. The RAIL does not include ABD 

year earnings in tier 1 if the full 60/30 employee is under age 62. If the ABD year 

earnings are high enough to produce an increase in the PIA, tier 1 is adjusted 

automatically at the later date when the employee becomes eligible for the 

recomputation. 

The tier 1 calculation may reject or be bypassed if no tier 1 adjustment is required, and 

the tier 2 calculation is performed. 

6.8.48 RAIL Tier 2 Computation 

SEARCH provides the new tier 2 basic annuity which reflects service and compensation 

through the latest year reported by railroad employers. This amount is adjusted for the 

vested dual benefit reduction if appropriate. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 43 of 312

 

If lag service for the current year was initially developed to establish the employee's 

eligibility, that service information is stored in PREH and is included in the calculations. 

Military service months are included in the RAIL tier 2 computation if PREH shows that 

a period of M/S is creditable under the Railroad Retirement Act and was used as 

railroad service in the initial award. 

6.8.49 RAIL RRA Maximum Test 

SEARCH provides the FAMC which reflects all compensation reported to date. The 

RAIL calculates the new RRA maximum amount and the new annuity amounts subject 

to the maximum effective on the later of the ABD or the VDB date of entitlement. If the 

RAIL tier 2 adjustment date is the vested dual benefit effective date, examiners must 

test the RRA maximum for the period from the ABD to the VDB effective date. 

If the RAIL test indicates the RRA maximum does not apply, the rate adjustment is 

made; if a maximum reduction was previously in force in the rate, it is removed. If the 

RAIL test indicates the RRA maximum applies, the case is adjusted if 1) only the 

spouse must be reduced for the maximum and 2) any resulting overpayment in the 

spouse's annuity is fully recoverable from the employee's accrual. Otherwise, if the 

RRA maximum applies, the case is rejected. 

In cases adjusted only for additional DRCs, a RRA maximum test cannot be made. 

Such cases are rejected if a maximum reduction is currently in force. 

A PARS record is created for cases in which the RRA maximum adjustment produces a 

spouse overpayment which is recovered from the employee's accrual. The 

identification code for the billing and cash receipt documents show "RAIL". 

Effective with the 2003 operation, the RAIL no longer performs a RRA maximum test 

because all cases involved in the RAIL have annuity beginning dates after 2001. 

6.8.50 RAIL Adjustment of Temporary Work Deduction 

Amounts 

The RAIL computes a new monthly work deduction amount if temporary work 

deductions are currently withheld from the annuity. If the tier 1 work deduction is a 

partial amount, the RAIL continues to withhold that amount. If the tier 1 work deduction 

is the full component, the new tier 1 work deduction amount is calculated by adding the 

increase in the adjusted tier 1 to the tier 1 work deduction amount in force prior to the 

RAIL. If the annuitant receives a reduced 60/30 annuity and the RAIL performs the age 

62 tier 1 recalculation, a new tier 1 work deduction amount is calculated based on the 

adjusted PIA 17 received from the SEARCH system. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 44 of 312

 

The new tier 2 work deduction amount is half the adjusted tier 2 if full LPE work 

deductions are in force. If the tier 2 work deduction amount in force is only a partial 

amount, the RAIL continues to withhold that amount. 

6.8.51 RAIL Accrual Payments 

The RAIL adjustment corrects the recurring monthly annuity rate payable for June (July 

1 payment)(September 1 payment for August for RAIL jobs 1989-95). The increase in 

tier 1 attributable to lag compensation is payable, in general, from the ABD or the 

following January; the increase in tier 2 attributable to lag service and compensation is 

payable from the ABD. The RAIL issues retroactive accrual payments for the months 

prior to June. 

In certain situations, the accrual cannot be paid mechanically or the amount must be 

restricted: 

• If the annuitant rejected in a previous COLA job and the COL has not yet been paid 

manually, the accrual cannot be calculated. 

• If tier 1 work deductions are withheld, no tier 1 accrual is paid. 

• If tier 2 work deductions are in force or tier 2 work deductions were withheld for 

some portion of the annuitant's entitlement period, only one-half the tier 2 accrual is 

paid. 

• If the annuitant receives social security benefits and the SSA date of entitlement is 

after the ABD, the tier 1 accrual for months prior to the SSA date of entitlement 

cannot be calculated. 

• If the increased PIA 1 and increased DRCs are payable from different dates, the 

RAIL cannot calculate the entire tier 1 accrual due. 

• If the vested dual benefit date of entitlement is later than the ABD, the entire tier 2 

accrual cannot be calculated in some situations. 

The total accrual calculated by the RAIL is issued in the third week of June (third week 

of August for RAIL jobs 1989-95). 

6.8.52 Calculation Of The RAIL Accrual 

The RAIL calculates the increased net tier 1 and net tier 2 amounts to be included in the 

July 1 payment. The accrual payment uses the increase amounts for tier 1 and tier 2 

(the differences between the RAIL tier 1 and tier 2 and the pre-adjustment tier 1 and tier 

2). The tier 1 and tier 2 increase amounts are adjusted to remove cost-of-living 

increases if the tier 1 or tier 2 accrual effective date is earlier than the latest COL date. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 45 of 312 

 

The resulting tier 1 and tier 2 increase amounts are then multiplied by the number of 

months from the RAIL tier 1 and tier 2 effective dates through May. 

The RAIL effective dates are: 

1. Tier 1 - The RAIL tier 1 accrual effective date is: 

• the ABD, or 

• the month DRCs are payable, or 

• the month PIA 1 is payable, or 

• the SSA benefit date of entitlement, or 

• the first month the annuitant is 62 the entire month (lawyear 83 reduced 

60/30 cases only) 

2. Tier 2 - The RAIL tier 2 effective date is: 

• the ABD, or 

• the vested dual benefit effective date 

6.8.53 RAIL G-90s 

G-90 forms are produced by SEARCH for the RAIL adjustment. Paper RAIL G-90 forms 

show the caption, "RAIL (year)," in item 1U; on GOLD, the Messages block shows 

“RAIL (year)”. The year displayed is the latest year for which employers have submitted 

final reports. The RAIL adds the service and compensation posted for this year to the 

annuity rate. Beginning in 1994, the RAIL also includes any SSA wages posted for the 

year. 

Note: SEARCH will use the SS wages in EDM unless there is an indicator that the 

employee has multiple SSNs or EDM has no wages. In these situations, SEARCH will 

go directly to SSA to obtain a wage record for the employee. If SEARCH had to go to 

SSA, the earnings record shown on the RAIL G-90 could be different from the earnings 

record in EDM. 

Item 2 of the paper RAIL G-90 forms (“Subsequent Service and Compensation Data” on 

GOLD) will show the creditable M/S months from PREH if military service is used as 

railroad service. If M/S is used as wage in the annuity, no M/S months will be shown, 

even though the creditability code for the M/S period indicates the period is creditable 

as compensation. 

A "P" in the right hand margin of item 4 (“DM/LAG” column of Compensation Data on 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 46 of 312 

 

GOLD) indicates the potential for deemed service months in the year earmarked. The 

RRB has released a GL-99 form to the railroad to obtain additional information needed 

to make the deeming decision; the RAIL G-90 does not reflect any deemed service 

months for the year. An "R" indicates a GL-99 was released and was returned by the 

railroad; the G-90 reflects any service months deemed for the year. 

Item 13 of the paper RAIL G-90 (“Remarks” on GOLD) shows messages as follows: 

a. "Service After ABD" - the RAIL tier 2 calculation ignores all service months 

credited for months after the ABD. If more than three months are reported after 

the ABD, the case is rejected in the RAIL. The message, "Service After the 

ABD", is shown on the G-90. Assessment and Training investigates to determine 

if the post-ABD months are due to a return to service by the employee. If the 

employee worked in the reported months, PEMS sends the case to OP to adjust 

the ABD. If the employee did not work, the erroneous service months are 

removed from EDM. When PEMS advises that the correction is made, OP 

should request a new G-90 and adjust the case. See RCM 7.T 4,T Appendix 

A for further information. 

b. "Possible Dup. Earns. - Wages Not Used in Years __" - in its PIA calculations, 

SEARCH ignores any wages in a year 1978 or later if they equal the railroad 

compensation for the year. The years for which wages have been ignored are 

listed in the message. If the wages are legitimate, request revised PIA 

calculations to include the wages. 

c. "Possible Dup. Earns - BA#"__" - the BA number in EDM belongs to a railroad 

which is known to have reported earnings to the RRB and SSA. For one or more 

years after 1977, there are wages posted which may be a duplication of 

compensation causing the PIA to be overstated. Cases in this category are 

rejected in the RAIL mass adjustment if investigation reveals the wages are 

erroneous. A manual PIA calculation is needed to exclude the erroneous wages. 

The PIA data on GOLD provides the complete PIA history for the employee as of the 

date of the SEARCH calculations. The PIA 1 amounts and effective dates shown on 

the paper RAIL G-90s are as follows: 

a. All cases except reduced 60/30 cases: 

• ABD year the same as the lag year- the first PIA is based on earnings 

through the year before the ABD year and is payable on the ABD; the second 

PIA, if any, is based on earnings through the ABD year and is payable 

January 1 of the year in which the RAIL operation is performed. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 47 of 312

 

• ABD year after the lag year - the PIA is based on earnings through the lag 

year and is payable on the ABD. 

b. Reduced 60/30 and the employee has not attained age 62 at the time the RAIL is 

performed in June (August for RAIL jobs 1989-95) - 

• ABD year the same as the lag year - the PIA is based on earnings through 

the year before the ABD year and is payable on the ABD. 

• ABD year after the lag year - the PIA is based on earnings through the lag 

year and is payable on the ABD. 

c. Reduced 60/30 and the employee attains age 62 before July (September for 

RAIL jobs 1989-95) - 

• Age 62 in the lag year - the first PIA is based on earnings through the year 

the employee is 61, and is payable in the first full month the employee is 62; 

the second PIA, if any, is based on earnings through the lag year and is 

payable January 1 of the year the RAIL operation is performed. 

• Age 62 after the lag year - the PIA is based on earnings through the lag year 

and is payable in the first full month the employee is 62. 

Effective with the 1999 RAIL, G-90 information may be updated to PREH by entering 

the G-90 date on a ROC/PC/manual award: if the calculation reject is 01, 02, 05, 10, 11, 

12, 15, 21, 34 through 39, 41, 49, 60, 61, 62 or 65; or if payment reject is 01, 02, 03, 07, 

09, 11, 13 or 17. If information on the G-90 is discrepant, request a new G-90 

accordingly. 

6.8.54 Records of the RAIL Adjustment 

Various records are produced to document the RAIL adjustments. 

1. Microfilm - a microfilm record of each RAIL adjustment was produced through 

August 1991. The film uses the standard mass adjustment information format 

described in Appendix A, Section I. The film title gives the date of the RAIL 

adjustment and the compensation year that was the focus of the operation. 

Codes are displayed on the microfilm to indicate the tier 1 and tier 2 accrual 

effective dates. The chart in Appendix F provides the codes and corresponding 

dates for the 1989-91 RAIL adjustments. 

2. G-358 - folder notices were produced for each RAIL adjustment through August 

1990. The G-358 forms show the same information as the microfilm. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 48 of 312

 

3. DATA-Q - the adjusted monthly recurring rate is displayed on DATA-Q. The rate 

is identified by a June voucher date and a mass adjustment voucher number 

(472 or 473). 

If the RAIL pays an accrual amount the sum of the tier 1 and tier 2 accruals is 

displayed under "ACCRUAL". If the RAIL accrual rejects, the "ACCRUAL" field 

is blank. 

4. MAIS - information for the August 1991 through August 1995 RAIL operations is 

available on the on-line mass adjustment inquiry system (MAIS) in RRAPID. 

MAIS replaced the microfilm and G-358 records. See RCM 16 for details. 

Beginning in 1996, PREH replaces MAIS as the source for RAIL information. 

5. PREH - beginning with the August 1995 RAIL, the mass adjustment information 

is available in the PREH database. For non-rejected cases, the following records 

are posted to the database: 

a. RHMADJ (3250) record 

• MASS-ADJ-EFF-DT is June 1 

• MASS-ADJ-TYP-CD is '3' 

• MASS-ADJ-RESULT-CD is '1' 

• MASS-ADJ-CALC-REJ-CD shows '88' if the addition of lag service and 

compensation does not change the monthly rate 

• MASS-ADJ-SPEC-1-CD has a value if the record is earmarked for further 

review or adjustment by an examiner 

• MASS-ADJ-SPEC-2-CD has a 'T' followed by a numeric code if the 

attempt to adjust tier 1 rejected. The code has an 'A' followed by a 

numeric code if the tier 1 accrual rejected. 

• MASS-ADJ-SPEC-3-CD has an 'A' followed by a numeric code if the tier 2 

accrual rejected 

b. RHTIER1 (3210) record(s) for each date break in the accrual period: 

• If the RAIL PIA 1 was the same as the PIA already used to compute tier 1, 

no tier 1 adjustment is made. No RHTIER1 record is posted for the RAIL. 

• If MASS-ADJ-SPEC-2-CD shows a tier 1 reject, no RHTIER1 records 

were posted for the RAIL 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 49 of 312

 

• If MASS-ADJ-CALC-REJ-CD in the RHMADJ record shows '88' (the total 

annuity rate did not change), the latest RHTIER1 record was posted for 

the RAIL 

• If MASS-ADJ-SPEC-2-CD shows a tier 1 accrual reject, the RHTIER1 

record with the June 1 beginning date was posted for the RAIL 

c. RHTIER2 (3215) record(s) for each date break in the accrual period: 

• If the calculation reject code is 88 (the rate did not change), the latest 

RHTIER2 record was posted for the RAIL. 

• If MASS-ADJ-SPEC-3-CD on the RHMADJ shows a tier 2 accrual reject, 

the RHTIER2 record with the June 1 beginning date was posted for the 

RAIL. 

• If there is a review code '36' (spouse) or '38'(employee), the first RHTIER2 

record posted for the RAIL has a beginning date equal to the VDB date of 

entitlement. If there is no review code '36' or '38', the RAIL adjusted the 

case from the ABD; all the RHTIER2 records reflect RAIL information. 

d. RHWKDED (3278) record(s) for each date break in the accrual period 

(beginning with the 1996 RAIL) 

e. RHREDCT (3220) record if the annuitant's record is reduced for work 

deductions or for tax withholding and the tax amount changes 

f. RHRATE (3235) record for the current recurring rate 

g. RHRCPAY (3277) recurring payment record with a July 1 beginning date 

h. RHACOPO (3275) record if the RAIL paid an accrual amount. The payment 

beginning date reflects the earlier of the tier 1 or tier 2 accrual effective date. 

For rejected cases, a RHMADJ (3250) record is posted to the database: 

• MASS-ADJ-EFF-DT is June 1 

• MASS-ADJ-TYP-CD is '3' 

• MASS-ADJ-RESULT-CD is '2' 

• MASS-ADJ-PYMT-REJ-CD has a value if the reject occurred when the RAIL 

attempted to put the new annuity rate onto the check writing master file 

• MASS-ADJ-CALC-REJ-CD has a value if the reject occurred when the RAIL 

attempted to calculate the new recurring monthly annuity rate. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 50 of 312

 

6.8.55 RAIL Adjustment Notices 

Employees are advised of the RAIL adjustment with letter T-11, and spouses receive 

letter T-12. Prior to 2002, employees and spouses adjusted for the RRA maximum 

received form letters T-11a and T-12a if the spouse adjusted rate was lower than the 

pre-RAIL rate. Form letters T-11b and T-12b were released if the spouse adjusted rate 

increased, but the spouse was overpaid for a period of months prior to the effective date 

of the increased rate. Exhibits 4 and 5 provide samples of these letters. 

6.8.56 SALSA 

Special payments of separation allowance lump sum amounts (SALSA) are payable to 

employees if: 

a. The employee received a severance or separation allowance payment from a 

railroad employer after 1984, and 

b. Retirement tier 2 taxes were withheld from the severance/separation allowance 

payment, and 

c. All or part of the severance/separation allowance payment could not be used to 

produce regular retirement service credits. 

In the mechanical SALSA operation, the SALSA calculation program calculates payable 

amounts for all retired employees for whom railroad employers have reported 

separation allowance payments. The amount calculated is then compared to the SALSA 

amount previously paid according to the Payment, Rate and Entitlement History 

database (PREH). The difference between the SALSA amount calculated and the 

amount previously paid are sent to the check writing system to be issued to the 

employee. If the employee is enrolled in the direct deposit program, the SALSA is 

deposited with the employee's financial institution. 

In 2006, the annual SALSA operation was replaced by the RESCUE system. 

6.8.57 SALSA Payment Notices 

Form letter T-30 is released to employees who are issued SALSA payments. There are 

two versions of the T-30. One version is released to the employee if the payment is the 

first SALSA issued to the employee. If the employee previously received a SALSA and 

an additional amount is now payable, the second version of the T-30 is released. 

Exhibit 6 provides an example of the T-30. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 51 of 312 

 

6.8.58 Records of SALSA Payments 

For the August 1989 through August 1995 mass adjustments, a copy of the T-30 letter 

was produced for the claim folder to document the SALSA payment. 

A microfilm record of the SALSA payment was produced through August 1991. The 

amount of the payment, or a reject code if the payment cannot be made, is shown in 

item 31 of the film. For the August 1991 through the August 1995 SALSA mass 

adjustments, information is available on the Mass Adjustment Inquiry System (MAIS) in 

RRAPID. See RCM 1T 6 T for details. 

Beginning with the August 1995 SALSA mass adjustment, the results of the operations 

are stored on the PREH database. 

a. If the mass adjustment issued a payment, PREH will contain the following: 

(1) a RHACOPO (3275) record for the payment showing the amount issued 

by the mass adjustment. The ACTVY- SOURCE-CD shows 7068 if the 

payment was released or 7069 if the case was in code 98 undeliverable 

suspended status. In code 98 suspended situations, the SALSA payment 

amount is added to the accrued undeliverable amount which is released 

when a corrected address is received. VCHR-NO-1 shows 0474 and 

VCHR-DT shows the date of the mass adjustment. 

(2) the RHREFND (3050) screen shows code 3, "Mass Adj", as the 

SALSAPYMT-SOURCE-CD and SALSA-LST-ACCT-DT is the same as 

VCHRDT on the RHACOPO (3275) screen. SALSA-CUM-PYBL-AMT on 

the RHREFND screen is the gross SALSA amount calculated for the 

mass adjustment; SALSA-PD-TTD-AMT includes the amount paid by the 

mass adjustment. The amount paid is added to any SALSA-PD-TTDAMT present before the mass adjustment. 

b. A case is rejected in the SALSA mass adjustment if: 

(1) the employee is not yet paid final at the time of the mass adjustment, or 

(2) the employee is terminated, or 

(3) the employee is suspended for other than code 98 undeliverable or code 

35/69 small overpayment recovery, or 

(4) the gross SALSA amount calculated is less than $5.01 (tolerance 

applied) 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 52 of 312

 

(5) the gross SALSA amount calculated was less than the amount 

previously paid to the employee. The SALSA- CUM-PYBL-AMT is less 

than the SALSA-PD-TTD-AMT on the RHREFND (3050) screen, or 

(6) the gross SALSA amount calculates to zero because all of the 

severance/separation allowance payment was used to provide service 

month credits, or 

(7) the gross SALSA amount could not be calculated mechanically because 

of discrepancies in the severance/separation allowance report received 

from the railroad employer. The SALSA-ALERT-FLG is '1' on the 

RHREFND (3050) screen 

If the case rejects in the mass adjustment, there is no RHACOPO (3275) screen with 

the current mass adjustment voucher date. The RHREFND (3050) screen shows the 

following: 

a. The SALSA-CUM-PYBL-AMT shows the gross SALSA amount (including zero) 

computed for the mass adjustment. 

b. The SALSA-ALERT-FLG shows '1' if the gross SALSA amount could not be 

computed mechanically. 

c. The SALSA-AMT-CHNG-ACCT-DT shows the mass adjustment voucher date. 

d. The SALSA-LST-ACCT-DT on the RHREFND (3050) screen does NOT show the 

voucher date of the current mass adjustment. 

e. The SALSA-PYMT-SOURCE-CD is not changed. If the source code shows 

"Mass Adj.", it refers to a previous mass adjustment; the SALSA-LST-ACCT-DT 

shows the date of that mass adjustment. 

From 1989 through 1997, one-page informational G-90 forms were produced for cases 

which rejected in the mass adjustment because the employee was terminated, in partial 

payment status or the gross SALSA amount was less than the amount previously paid. 

The SALSA amount shown on the informational G90s produced form 1993 through 

1997 may not be correct; these G90s should not be used to make manual SALSA

payments. Instead, use the SALSA-CUM-PYBL-AMT and the SALSA-PD-TTD-AMT on 

the PREH RHREFND (3050) screen to determine any amount payable. 

6.8.59 Handling SALSA Inquiries 

Examiners should handle inquiries concerning non-receipt of SALSA payments if a 

SALSA was calculated but was not issued because the employee is terminated, 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 53 of 312

 

suspended or in partial status, or if the SALSA was issued but not received by the 

employee. 

Forward the inquiry to Assessment and Training - STARS Project if: 

a. the employee inquiries about entitlement to a SALSA amount and the 

SALSACUM-PYBL-AMT is zero and the SALSA-ALERT-FLG is zero, or 

b. the employee received a SALSA payment and questions the amount 

Forward the inquiry to Policy and Systems - Records Analysis and Systems if the 

SALSA-ALERT-FLG is not zero. 

6.8.60 Supplemental Annuity Reductions 

At various times between 1987 and 1990, supplemental annuity funds were 

sequestered under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Reaffirmation 

Act (also known as the Gramm-Rudman act). When a sequestration order was issued, 

monthly supplemental annuity payments were reduced by the required percentage 

through a mass adjustment operation. 

A total of five supplemental annuity adjustment actions were performed in this period. 

Most of the supplemental annuity amounts withheld were later paid to employee 

annuitants. Appendix I provides a chart of the various cutback mass adjustments. 

Legislation was eventually passed which exempts supplemental annuity funds from 

sequestration. Supplemental annuity payments are now protected from 

GrammRudman reductions. 

6.8.61 CPI Correction 

In October 2000, the Bureau of Labor Statistics identified an error in the consumer price 

index (CPI) that was used to determine the cost-of-living increase paid for December 

1999. The original percentage used in December 1999 was 2.4%; the corrected 

percentage was 2.5%. The error of 0.1% affected tier 1 benefits paid by the Railroad 

Retirement Board (RRB), benefits paid by the Social Security Administration (SSA), and 

pensions paid by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). 

The error of 0.1% did not impact the December 1999 tier 2 cost-of-living increase. 

Although the tier 2 cost-of-living percentage is 32.5% of the tier 1 percentage, the small 

change in the tier 1 percentage was not significant enough to produce a change in the 

tier 2 percentage. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 54 of 312

 

6.8.62 Impact of the CPI correction 

Benefits were affected if the employee (or the wage earner in the case of SSA benefits) 

was: 

• Age 62 before 2000, or 

• Rated disabled before 2000, or 

• Died before 2000 

The majority of monthly benefits were understated $1.00 or less as a result of the CPI 

error in 1999. 

6.8.63 Corrective Action 

The RRB and SSA corrected monthly benefits effective July 1, 2001 (August 1, 2001 

payment). Accrual payments were calculated for the period from December 1999 

through June 2001. OPM corrected monthly benefits effective May 1, 2001 (June 1, 

2001 payment). 

6.8.64 RRB mass adjustment 

The RRB performed a mass adjustment on July 3, 2001 to correct tier 1. The 

adjustment voucher number was 473. 

The primary insurance amount (PIA) used in tier 1 was recalculated using 2.5% as the 

December 1999 cost-of-living increase percentage. SSA provided a file with corrected 

benefit amounts which were used for the tier 1 SS offset. OPM public service pension 

offset amounts were also corrected; the corrected offset amounts were calculated in the 

mass adjustment operation. 

Note: OPM pension offset amounts subtracted from tier 1 were corrected effective July 

1, 2001. No correction was made in the offset amounts for May and June 2001 even 

though OPM corrected its payments for those months. 

If the correction in the cost-of-living percentage increased the net tier 1 payable for July 

2001, an accrual was calculated for the months between December 1999 and June 

2001. The net increase in the July 2001 net tier 1 was used to compute the accrual. 

The amount was accrued from the later of: 

• The annuity beginning date, or 

• The first full month the annuitant was age 62 if the annuity was paid under the 60/30 

provision of the 1983 Amendments, or 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 55 of 312

 

• December 1999. 

Federal income taxes were deducted from the accrual payment only for amounts paid to 

non-resident aliens. 

6.8.65 Correction of SSA Benefits 

RRB corrected the July benefit for LAF E payments using the information provided by 

SSA. The RRB computed the accrual due in LAF E payments. The net increase in the 

July benefit was used to compute the accrual due from the later of: • The SSA date of 

entitlement, or 

• December 1999. 

SSA corrected the July benefit for LAF C payments. SSA computed the accrual due for 

January 2001 through June 2001 using the net increase in the July benefit. For the 

months prior to 2001, SSA was not able to compute precise accrual amounts. Instead, 

SSA paid an amount to each beneficiary that was intended to approximate the total 

amount the beneficiary could have been underpaid in 2000. SSA based the 

approximation on ranges of PIA values and paid $12, $24, $36, or $48. SSA assumed 

the beneficiary was entitled for all months in 2000. 

SSA corrected its benefit history from July 1, 2001. The accrual payments were not 

reflected in the rates in the benefit history. Tier 1 was reduced for the new SSA benefit 

payable July 1, 2001. The approximation amounts SSA paid for months before July 

2001 did not impact tier 1 and were not taken into consideration when computing tier 1 

rates for months before July 2001. 

6.8.66 CPI correction notices 

Form letter T-60 was released to beneficiaries to explain the CPI correction. A single 

letter was used to explain the adjustment in the RR annuity and LAF E SS benefits. 

The letter was dated July 20, 2001. Eleven different versions of the T-60 were used to 

explain the various situations: 

• The beneficiary received an increase in monthly benefits and a retroactive accrual 

payment, 

• The beneficiary was not eligible for the December 1999 cost-of-living, 

• The beneficiary was eligible for the December 1999 cost-of-living but the CPI 

correction is did not change the monthly rate, 

• The correction could not be made mechanically in the mass adjustment operation. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 56 of 312

 

RCM 6.8 Exhibits 8 through 18 provide samples of the T-60 versions. The following 

chart explains the situation addressed in each version of the letter: 

 

T-60 version Case category 

01 RR only not eligible for December 1999 COL 

02 RR only but no change in tier 1 

03 RR only rate adjusted and accrual paid 

04 

RR and/or LAF E SS and both rejected or one rejected and the 

other benefit was not impacted by the correction 

05 

SS only and not eligible for December 1999 COL or correction did 

not change the monthly rate 

06 SS only rate adjusted and accrual paid 

07 

RR and LAF E SS; both adjusted or one benefit was adjusted and 

the other benefit was not changed (either the unchanged benefit 

was not eligible for the December 1999 COL or the correction did 

not change the monthly rate) 

08 RR and LAF E SS; RR adjusted but SS rejected 

09 RR and LAF E SS; SS adjusted but RR rejected 

10 

RR and LAF E SS; not eligible for the December 1999 COL or the 

correction did not change the monthly rate 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 57 of 312 

 

11 

RR and LAF E SS; both adjusted but dollar for dollar offset in tier 1 

produced no change in the monthly rate. An SS accrual was paid. 

In addition to the T-60, a form T-61 insert was included with versions 03, 06, 08 and 09 

of the T-60 mailed to non-resident alien beneficiaries. The insert provided information 

about Federal income tax withholding from the accrual payment. Exhibit 19 in RCM 6.T 8

Tprovides a sample of the T-61. 

6.8.67 PREH records of the CPI correction 

The PREH database contains the following records of the CPI corrective actions: 

 

PREH record What is shown 

Tier 1 (3210-RHTIER1) The tier 1 screen has a beginning date of 20010701. 

Even if the correction did not yield an increase in net tier 1 

a new 3210 record was added to the tier 1 history if the 

annuitant was eligible for the December 1999 COL. No 

3210 records were posted for the retroactive accrual 

payments. 

SSA history (3206-

RHSSHIST) 

The results of the mass adjustment in LAF E SS benefits 

are displayed even if the monthly benefit did not increase 

if the beneficiary was eligible for the December 1999 COL. 

Payment (3277- 

RHRCPAY) 

There is a record with a beginning date of 20010801 if the 

monthly payment changed. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 58 of 312

 

Mass adjustment (3250-

RHMADJ) The record for the RR CPI correction shows: 

• 20010701 effective date 

• type code of 5 (“Other”) 

• normal reject and review information plus special 

CALC REJ codes: 

o 87 – the beneficiary was not eligible for the 

12/99 COL and therefore tier 1 was not adjusted 

o 88 – the correction did not produce a change in 

net tier 1. The 3210 tier 1 record was corrected 

to show the new tier 1 calculation, but the 

monthly payment was not changed. 

o 89 – the increase in LAF C SSA benefits 

caused net tier 1 to decrease by less than $2.01 

or the adjusted rate increased by less than 

$1.00 and the CPI accrual was less than $1.00. 

The 3210 tier 1 record was corrected to show 

the new tier 1 calculation, but the monthly 

payment was not changed. 

o 90 – the CPI correction could not be made 

because 1) the beneficiary received an SS 

benefit increase prior to the CPI correction for 

PREH record What is shown 

which tier 1 was never adjusted, or 2) PIA 1 

was incorrect due to an AERO or RAIL reject, or 

3) the dual RR offset needed to be corrected in 

the spouse/widow tier 1 

Accrual (3275-

RHACOPO) The record shows “CPI” as the source of the payment. 

The amount may be RR only, SS only, or a combination 

of the two. A voucher number of 477 was used for 

combined RR/SS accruals. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 59 of 312

 

6.8.68 CPI correction for terminated beneficiaries 

Terminated annuities were not corrected in the mass adjustment. The CPI correction 

was done manually if the annuitant inquired about the correction and: 

• the employee annuitant was born before January 2, 1938 or was rated disabled 

before 2000 or died before 2000, and 

• the annuitant was terminated after December 1999, and 

• net tier 1 was not reduced to zero by offsets, and 

• the correction would increase gross tier 1 by at least $1.00 

6.8.69 CPI correction for deceased beneficiaries 

Annuities of deceased annuitants were not corrected in the mass adjustment. The CPI 

correction was done manually if an inquiry was received and: 

• the person inquiring was receiving a monthly annuity from the RRB, and 

• the employee was born before January 2, 1938 or was rated disabled before 2000 

or died before 2000, and 

• the deceased annuitant died after December 1999, and 

• net tier 1 was not reduced to zero by offsets, and 

• the correction would increase gross tier 1 by at least $1.00 

6.8.70 Student Suspension/Family Adjustment 

The Social Security Act (SSA) Amendments of 1981 limit the definition of educational 

institutions to elementary or secondary schools effective August 1, 1982. The legislation 

also provides for a gradual phase-out of student beneficiaries on the rolls in August 

1981 who are enrolled in a post-secondary school previous to May 1982. Although 

entitlement provisions to a Railroad Retirement Act (RRA) annuity remain unchanged, 

the RRA annuity amount payable is affected by the 1981 SSA Amendments. This is 

because a survivor student's annuity under the Railroad Retirement Act consists of a 

tier I amount, which is computed under the social security formula, and a tier II amount, 

which is computed under the railroad retirement formula. 

Unless students in post-secondary school met certain criteria, their benefits were 

terminated effective August 1982. While the phase-out aspects of the 1981 

Amendments allow benefits to continue to certain post-secondary students beyond 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 60 of 312 

 

August 1982, they also place certain limitations on these benefits. Specifically, these 

are: 

• Benefits will not be paid for the months of May through August. 

• No cost-of-living increase in tier I will be paid. 

• In September 1982, the tier I original rate of a phase-out student will be reduced to 

75 percent of the tier I original rate that was applicable in August 1981. 

• In September 1983, the tier I original rate of a phase-out student will be reduced to 

50 percent of the August 1981 tier I original rate level. 

• In September 1984, the tier I original rate of a phase-out student will be reduced to 

25 percent of the August 1981 tier I original rate level. 

• Payment to all phase-out student beneficiaries will terminate effective August 1985. 

These provisions are implemented for survivor students by a mechanical program twice 

a year starting with June 1, 1982 and continuing through 

June 1, 1985. The program has been set up to: 

• mechanically suspend phase-out students effective with the check dated 6-1 

• mechanically reinstate phase-out students effective with the check dated 10-1 

• mechanically adjust the rates of family members for the period of May, June-August, 

and September-April, whenever the maximum applies. 

6.8.71 Type of Notification 

A. Phase-out Student Notification in May 

A code letter is mechanically released through the G-96 suspension program 

during the last week in May. 

B. Phase-out Student Notification in September - A letter is mechanically released 

to each student in the third week in September. There are 3 versions of the 

letter because there are 3 kinds of computations at which the student can be 

reinstated: 

• sole survivor minimum rate 

• phase-out (6-1981 PIA xx .75, .50 or .25) 

• phase-out student original rate reduced for the maximum 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 61 of 312 

 

The adjustment letter used is the RL-119. There is no folder record or copy for 

the field. 

C. Family Member Notification - If the maximum applies, the rates of the other 

family members are affected by the exclusion of the student for May through 

August, and the inclusion of the student in September. Therefore, in maximum 

cases, each payee code is sent a letter explaining the new rates payable to each 

beneficiary on that payee code. If applicable, the amount of the accrual check 

which will be sent out later that month is included in the letter. The letter format 

used is the RL-119. There is no folder record or copy for the field. 

6.8.72 Microfilm/Microfiche 

A. June 1, Microfilm/Microfiche - A microfilm of the June 1, student suspension 

and family adjustment is available for examiners. A microfiche is available for 

the field. The standard format as explained in Appendix A, Section II is used. 

The only exception is that in column (D) "GROSS TIER 1," either the original 

rate or reduced for maximum rate (whichever applies) is shown. No code is 

shown, and no DRC's are shown. 

B. October 1, Microfilm/Microfiche 

A microfilm of the October 1, student reinstatement and family adjustment is 

available for examiners. A microfiche is available for the field. The standard 

format as explained in Appendix A is used. The only exceptions are: 

• Maximum Determined by Research Shown - Under column (A), "RES MAX 

XXX.XX" will be shown. This will be on the first line, before any other data for 

all family members and all students on that claim number. 

• Original or Reduced for Max Rate - Column (D), "GROSS TIER I" shows 

either the original or reduced for maximum rate, whichever applies. No code 

is shown. DRC's are not included. 

• Student in Suspense - If the phase-out student was in suspense before the 

May mechanical suspension, he will be on the microfilm as a NO MASTER 

RECORD. 

The following special effects are added if the October 1 adjustment includes 3 

rate breaks: 

• Three Rate Breaks Shown - The first 2 lines in a combined check case shown 

the claim number, PC, and columns (Y) through (d) for May. The next 2 lines 

show the same information as it pertains to June through August. The next 2 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 62 of 312 

 

lines show the same information as it pertains to September. The effective 

date for each rate break is shown in the "CLAIM NUMBER" column. 

After the "combined check" information is shown, each beneficiary on the payee 

code has 3 sets of data (3 rate breaks). Each rate break takes up 2 lines (per 

usual). The effective date for each rate break is shown in the "CLAIM NUMBER" 

column. 

• Accrual Check Shown - The amount of the accrual check sent to each payee 

of the family group is shown in column (c). That column is labeled "SUP ANN 

RED FOR RRA MAX" but will show the amount of the accrual check released 

in mid-October. 

6.8.73 Computations 

The mechanical adjustment computes cases the same way they would be handled 

manually, with 3 exceptions. These exceptions are explained below. In all cases, the 

rate which is paid in the mechanical job should be considered correct, and used as the 

basis for future adjustments. Only if the beneficiary requests a review of his case 

should the rate be questioned or changed. 

A. Sole Survivor Minimum 

In the mechanical job, the sole survivor minimum (SSM) is computed for 

students as follows: 

• If the year of eligibility is before 1979, the SSM equals the minimum AMW 

PIA. 

• If the year of eligibility is in 1979 or later, $122.00 is increased for COL's. In 

the October 1982 adjustment, all COL's were given, even if no individual was 

entitled to a benefit in each year. In the October 1983 adjustment, $122 was 

increased only by 1.074 for the June 1982 COL. 

B. RIB Limitations 

In the maximum cases, when the student is out of the computations in the 

summer, the RIB LIMIT will not be tested to see if it applies. The widow(er)'s 

rate is calculated without regard to any possible RIB limitation. 

C. Determination of Saving Clause Maximum 

The savings clause maximum can be hundreds of dollars over the table 

maximum, or cents over the table maximum; each case is different. Since this 

information is not in the research record, the mechanical operations will try to 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 63 of 312

 

create the savings clause. It may not be exactly what you would get if computing 

the case manually. 

6.8.74 RRSIA RRA Maximum Removal 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 eliminated the RRA 

maximum test for retirement annuities payable for months after 2001. Beginning in 

January 2002 and later, regular retirement annuities and supplemental annuities are no 

longer subject to RRA maximum reductions. 

6.8.75 Mass Mailing to Annuitants with RRA Maximum 

Reductions 

In January of 2002, form letter T-75 (Exhibit 29) was released to employee and spouse 

annuitants who had RRA maximum reductions in force in tier 2 and/or the supplemental 

annuity. The T-75 advised annuitants that the RRA maximum would be removed in the 

near future. 

During the years the RRA maximum provision was in force, situations arose in which 

the spouse did not file for an annuity because the combined spouse and employee 

rates would cause the RRA maximum to apply. Letter T-76 (Exhibit 30) was released to 

employees if no spouse annuity was in force and the PREH RHEE record indicated the 

spouse would invoke the RRA maximum. The purpose of the T-76 was to alert 

employees that the RRA maximum no longer applied beginning in January 2002 in case 

the employee’s spouse wanted to file for an annuity. 

6.8.76 Mass Adjustment to Remove RRA Maximum 

Reductions 

A mass adjustment operation was performed in May 2002 to remove the RRA 

maximum reduction from the tier 2 of employees and spouses who were paid final 

before May 17, 2002. The tier 2 benefits of 13,711 annuitants were adjusted. 

The mass operation also removed the RRA maximum reduction from the supplemental 

annuity of 340 employee annuitants. 

The increased monthly rates were reflected on the June 1, 2002 payment. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised September 12, 2022 Page 64 of 312

Retroactive accrual amounts were paid in the mass operation. Accruals were calculated 

for tier 2 from the later of: 

• January 1, 2002, or 

• The annuity beginning date, or 

• The vested dual benefit effective date, or 

• The effective date of LPE work deductions, or 

• The ending date of LPE work deductions. 

Supplemental annuity accruals were calculated from the later of: 

• January 1, 2002, or 

• The supplemental annuity beginning date, or • The effective date of LPE work 

deductions, or 

• The ending date of LPE work deductions. 

If the accrual amounts were restricted to a date later than January 1, 2002 or the benefit 

beginning date, referrals were issued to RBD to pay any additional accrual due. 

If the accrual amount calculated in the mass operation was less than $1.00, no accrual 

was issued. 

6.8.77 RRA Maximum 

Benefit Calculations 

The tier 2 calculations performed by the mass operation included tier 2 take back 

reductions. The December 1983 and December 1984 take back amounts found in the 

RHTIER2 record were used in the computation of tier 2. If the RHTIER2 record did not 

contain take back amounts (i.e., tier 2 was reduced to zero by the RRA maximum 

reduction), the total tier 2 take back amount found in the RHRRID record of PREH was 

used in the calculation of tier 2. Seventy percent of the total take back amount was 

used as the December 1983 take back amount, and the balance of the total take back 

was subtracted as the December 1984 take back amount. The $10.00 tier 2 minimum 

guaranty was applied where appropriate. 

Railroad pension information found in the RHPENS record in PREH was used in the 

computation of the adjusted supplemental annuity. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 65 of 312 

 

If LPE work deductions were in force, a work deduction amount was calculated for the 

adjusted tier 2 and/or supplemental annuity. If a partial work deduction amount was in

force, that deduction amount was continued in the new rate. If full work deductions were 

in force, half the adjusted tier 2 and/or half the adjusted supplemental annuity were 

withheld from the new rate. If PREH indicated the annuitant was in LPE, but no work 

deductions were previously assessed because the RRA maximum reduced tier 2 and/or 

the supplemental annuity to zero, the mass operation initiated LPE work deductions in 

the monthly rate. 

Mass Operation Voucher Dates and Numbers 

The voucher date for the adjustment in the recurring monthly payment was May 17, 

2002. The voucher date for the accrual payment was May 18, 2002. 

If only tier 2 or only the supplemental annuity was adjusted, the voucher number was 

473. If both tier 2 and the supplemental annuity were adjusted, the voucher number was 

477. 

Mass Operation Notifications 

The following letters were released to adjusted annuitants: 

Circumstances Letter RCM 6.8 Exhibit 

The RRA maximum was 

removed in the mass 

operation 

T-84 Exhibit 22 

Only the supplemental 

annuity was reduced for 

the RRA maximum, and 

the net supplemental 

annuity continues to be 

zero due to a RR pension. 

T-85 Exhibit 23 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 66 of 312

 

The attempt to remove the 

RRA maximum reduction 

rejected. 

T-86 Exhibit 24 

Mass Operation Referral Codes 

Referrals were issued to RBD if the RRA maximum could not be removed in the mass 

operation, or if the mechanical adjustment needed to be followed with further examiner 

action. The referral codes are found in Appendix P 

6.8.81 Widow(er)’s Initial Minimum Amount 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 (RRSIA) created an 

initial minimum amount for aged and disabled widow(er)s and young mothers and 

fathers paid under the 1981 amendments. The “widow(er)’s initial minimum amount” 

(WIMA) is based on amounts payable to the annuitant on the original beginning date 

(OBD). If the annuitant’s rate is adjusted for the family maximum, amounts are 

computed that would have been payable on the OBD based on the current family group. 

The WIMA is a fixed amount; it is not adjusted for cost-of-living-increases that are 

payable after the OBD. The WIMA is an alternative to the regular widow(er)’s annuity 

computation. The WIMA was effective February 1, 2002. 

6.8.82 Initial WIMA Mailing 

In January of 2002, letters were sent to all widow(er)’s on the rolls to make them aware 

of the WIMA provision of the RRSIA: 

 

Letter Released to Text sample 

T-71 

1981 amendment widow(er)s who were eligible for 

an increase in monthly benefits because of the 

WIMA. 

Exhibit 25 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 67 of 312

 

T-72 

1981 amendment widow(er)s who were not 

eligible for an increase under the WIMA provision. 

In these cases, the widow(er) had been on the 

rolls long enough so that annual cost-of-living 

increases made the regular annuity rate higher 

than the person’s WIMA. 

Exhibit 26 

T-73 

Remarried widow(er)s and surviving divorced 

spouses to explain why those annuities were not 

subject to the WIMA provision 

Exhibit 27 

T-74 

Widow(er)s paid under the 1937 or 1974 acts to 

explain why those annuities were not subject to the 

WIMA provision 

Exhibit 28 

T-77 

1981 amendment widow(er)s if a determination of 

WIMA eligibility could not be made in advance of 

the mass adjustment operation. 

Exhibit 31 

6.8.83 WIMA Adjustments 

Two WIMA mass operations were performed in 2002: 

• In April, the WIMA operation tested the WIMA for 114,700 1981 amendment 

widow(er)s who were paid find before April 17thP . The WIMA was paid to 46,213 of P 

these widow(er)s. In the rest of the cases, the widow(er)’s current regular annuity 

rate exceeded the WIMA. 

• In June, a WIMA clean-up operation was performed to test the WIMA for the 713 

widow(er)s who came on the rolls after the April operation and before changes were 

finalized in SURPASS to test the WIMA on all initial widow(er) awards. 

6.8.84 WIMA Computations 

In both WIMA operations, the WIMA amount was computed as follows: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 68 of 312

 

• WIMA tier 1 component – the statutory share of the OBD PIA adjusted for the family 

maximum (based on the family group in force at the time of the operation) and 

reduced for the RIB limit or the number of months the widow(er) was under FRA on 

the OBD 

• WIMA tier 2 component – 100 percent of the deceased employee’s tier 2 adjusted for 

vested dual benefit entitlement and cost-of-living increases accrued between the 

employee’s date of death and the widow(er)’s OBD. The tier 2 amount was adjusted 

for the family maximum, the number of months the widow(er) was under FRA on the 

OBD, and any employee actual or fictional section 4(d) takeback. 

The total WIMA amount computed as described above was compared to the following 

amount from the February 1, 2002 regular annuity rate: 

• Tier 1 adjusted for cost-of-living increases, the family maximum, and the RIB limit or 

the number of months the widow(er) was under FRA on the OBD. The tier 1 amount 

was before reductions for social security benefit, public service pension and/or dual 

railroad retirement entitlement. 

• Tier 2 adjusted for early retirement and section 4(d) takebacks and increased for the 

spouse minimum amount. The regular tier 2 used for the comparison did not include 

any dual entitlement restored amount. 

If the WIMA was higher than the regular annuity amount, the May 1, 2002 monthly rate 

was increased for the main operation, and the July 1, 2002 payment was increased in 

the subsequent clean-up operation. 

Retroactive accruals were computed from the later of: 

• February 1, 2002, or 

• The OBD, or 

• The month after February in which the family group changed. 

If the total accrual was less than $1.00, no accrual was paid in the mass operations. 

6.8.85 Rules Used in the Automated WIMA Computation 

The following rules were applied in both automated operations: 

• If there was no RHTIER1 record for the OBD in PREH, the WIMA tier 1 was 

computed by removing cost-of-living increases from the current tier 1 amount. If 

PREH contained tier 1 information for the annuity rate payable on the OBD, that 

information was used to calculate the WIMA tier 1 amount, unless tier 1 was subject 

to the 2001 CPI correction. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 69 of 312 

 

• If the OBD was after November 30, 1999 and the tier 1 was adjusted in the July 2001 

CPI correction, the WIMA tier 1 was computed by removing cost-of-living increases 

from the current tier 1. 

• If the tier 1 beginning date was after the OBD, the WIMA tier 1 was zero. 

• If the family maximum applied on the OBD or in April 2002, the WIMA tier 1 was 

computed by removing cost-of-living increases from the current tier 1. 

• If the family group changed in March or April, the computation of the accrual was 

restricted to that month. Referrals were issued for SBD to determine the amount 

payable from February 1, 2002 up to the month the family group changed. 

• If the widow(er) was under FRA on the OBD, the number of age reduction months 

applicable on the OBD (before any ARF) were used to calculate the WIMA tier 1 and 

tier 2. 

6.8.86 WIMA Mass Operation Notifications 

Letter T-78 was released to widow(er)s if the May 1stP payment was increased because P 

the WIMA was higher than the regular annuity rate. The text of the T-78 can be found in 

Exhibit 20. 

Letter T-79 was released if the WIMA test could not be done in the mass operations. 

The text of the T-79 is provided in Exhibit 21. 

Letter T-72 (Exhibit 26) was released to widow(er)s who received the T-77 in the initial 

WIMA mailing in January, and the mass operation determined no WIMA increase was 

payable. 

6.8.87 WIMA Mass Operation Referral Codes 

If the WIMA could not be tested by the mass operation, or if the mechanical adjustment 

action needed to be followed by further examiner action, a referral was issued to SBD. 

The referral codes are provided in Appendix O. 

6.8.88 RESCUE Overview 

The system to recalculate for service and compensation updated to EDM (RESCUE) 

was developed to automate annuity adjustments in response to changes in railroad 

service, railroad compensation, or social security wages posted to the Employment Data 

Maintenance database (EDM). RESCUE also issues SALSA payments in response to 

changes made in the separation payments master records. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 70 of 312

 

RESCUE replaces the following annual mass adjustments: RAIL, AERO, SALSA. In 

addition, RESCUE adjusts annuities for all corrective reports made by railroad 

employers and for internally-generated corrections to EDM. 

The first RESCUE run considered all EDM and SALSA activity posted after 2005. 

Generally, RESCUE runs three times a year (March, June, September). The RESCUE 

runs do not necessarily conform to standard calendar quarters. In the month of a 

RESCUE run, RESCUE awards are sent to ROC in the last week of the month. The 

awards are vouchered the first of the following month. 

RESCUE only processes annuity adjustments for retirement cases. If there is a survivor 

annuity being paid, RESCUE will request a wage record. A manual evaluation of the 

survivor annuity is made to determine if an adjustment is needed. Any necessary 

survivor adjustments are done manually in SBD. Because examiners always obtain 

fresh PIA and tier 2 computations when a survivor application is filed, most survivor 

annuities already reflect the service and earnings changes that RESCUE applies to the 

retirement annuity. 

6.8.89 RESCUE Triggers 

There are several ways for a case to be activated in RESCUE: 

• A change in service months (reported and/or deemed) is posted to EDM 

• A change in railroad compensation (regular or miscellaneous) is posted to EDM 

• A change in social security wages is posted to EDM 

• Delayed retirement credits (DRCs) earned in the ABD year need to be included in tier 

1 either in the following January or in the month the employee attains age 70 

• Tier 1 needs to be adjusted for RRSIA 60/30 cases to include ABD earnings in tier 1 

beginning in January after the year the employee attains age 62. 

RESCUE sweeps EDM to find changes in service and/or earnings. RESCUE also 

checks the Payment, Rate and Entitlement History database (PREH) in the first run 

each year to identify full age employees with ABDs in the previous calendar year who 

need DRCs added to tier 1 and to identify RRSIA 60/30 employees who are due a PIA 1 

recomputation because the employee turned 62 the previous year. 

If RESCUE is activated for a change in service and/or earnings but there is no record in 

PREH, RESCUE will check APPLE for a pending retirement or survivor application. If 

an application is found, a referral is issued for RBD/SBD to check to make sure the initial 

award considers all service and earnings found in EDM. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 71 of 312

 

Dates for each RESCUE run are provided below: 

 

EDM activity posted RESCUE G90 date ROC voucher 

January 1, 2006 – June 16, 2006 June 23, 2006 July 3, 2006 

June 16, 2006 – September 15, 2006 September 26, 

2006 

October 2, 2006 

September 15, 2006 – April 13, 2007 April 24, 2007 May 1, 2007 

April 13, 2007 – July 13, 2007 July 25, 2007 August 1, 2007 

July 13, 2007 - October 12, 2007 October 29, 2007 November 1, 2007 

October 12, 2007 – February 15, 2008 February 22, 2008 March 3, 2008 

February 15, 2008 – May 14, 2008 May 27, 2008 June 2, 2008 

May 14, 2008 – September 15, 2008 

September 24, 2008 

October 1, 2008 

September 15, 2008 – January 4, 2009 April 30, 2009 May 5, P 2009P 

January 4, 2009 – May 13, 2009 May 21, 2009 June 9, 2009 

May 14, 2009 – August 12, 2009 August 19, 2009 September 1, 2009 

August 13, 2009 – January 2, 2010 February 22, 2010 March 2, 2010 

January 2, 2010 – May 12, 2010 May 25, 2010 June 1, 2010 

May 12, 2010 – August 16, 2010 August 23, 2010 September 1, 2010 

August 16, 2010 – January 2, 2011 February 19, 2011 March 1, 2011 

January 2, 2011 – May 11, 2011 May 19, 2011 June 1, 2011 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 72 of 312

 

EDM activity posted RESCUE G90 date ROC voucher 

May 11, 2011 – August 16, 2011 August 25, 2011 September 1, 2011 

August 16, 2011 – January 2, 2012 February 24, 2012 March 1, 2012 

January 2, 2012 – May 14, 2012 May 23, 2012 June 1, 2012 

May 1, 2012 – August 14, 2012 August 22, 2012 September 4, 2012 

August 14, 2012 – January 1, 2013 February 25, 2013 March 1, 2013 

January 1, 2013 – May 14, 2013 May 24, 2013 June 3, 2013 

May 14, 2013 – August 14, 2013 August 21, 2013 September 3, 2013 

August 14, 2013 – January 1, 2014 February 20, 2014 March 3, 2014 

January 1, 2014 – May 13, 2014 May 23, 2014 June 2, 2014 

May 13, 2014 – August 14, 2014 August 21, 2014 September 2, 2014 

August 14, 2014 – January 1, 2015 February 20, 2015 March 2, 2015 

January 1, 2015 – May 13, 2015 May 21, 2015 June 1, 2015 

May 13, 2015 – August 13, 2015 August 24, 2015 September 1, 2015 

August 13, 2015 – January 1, 2016 February 25, 2016 March 1, 2016 

January 1, 2016 – May 11, 2016 May 20, 2016 June 1, 2016 

May 11, 2016 – August 18, 2016 August 24, 2016 September 1, 2016 

August 18, 2016 – January 1, 2017 February 22, 2017 March 1, 2017 

January 1, 2017 – May 15, 2017 May 23, 2017 June 1, 2017 

May 15, 2017 – August 16, 2017 August 22, 2017 September 1, 2017 

August 16, 2017 – January 1, 2018 February 21, 2018 March 1, 2018 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 73 of 312

 

EDM activity posted 

RESCUE G90 

date ROC voucher 

January 1, 2018 – May 16, 2018 May 23, 2018 June 1, 2018 

May 17, 2018 to December 31, 2018 February 25, 2019 March 1, 2019 

January 1, 2019 – May 15, 2019 May 22, 2019 June 3, 2019 

May 16, 2019 –August 17, 2019 August 23, 2019 September 3, 2019 

August 18,2019 –December 31, 2019 February 26, 2020 March 2, 2020 

January 1, 2020 – May 18, 2020 June 10, 2020 June 11, 2020 

May 19, 2020 – August 17, 2020 August 20, 2020 September 1, 2020 

August 18, 2020 – December 31, 2020 February 23, 2021 March 1, 2021 

January 1, 2021 –May 15, 2021 May 21, 2021 June 1, 2021 

May 18, 2021 – August 19, 2021 August 26, 2021 September 1, 2021 

August 18, 2021 – December 31, 2021 February 28, 2022 March 1, 2022

January 1, 2022 – June 17, 2022 June 23, 2022 July 1, 2022

January 1, 2022 – August 17, 2022 August 25, 2022 September 1, 2022

August 18, 2022 – December 31, 2022 February 23, 2023 March 1, 2023

January 1, 2023 –May 18, 2023 May 24, 2023 June 1, 2023
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 74 of 312 

 

A special RESCUE run in November 2006 adjusted non-terminated employees for any 

service or earnings changes posted to EDM prior to 2006. The cases were identified by 

comparing new SEARCH PIA 1 and gross tier 2 computations to the amounts being 

paid. Approximately 42,000 employees were considered in this special run. Adjusted 

annuities have a voucher date of November 2, 2006. 

The special run also included the spouses and divorced spouses of the active 

employees. If the spouse/divorced spouse was deceased, any accrued annuity due was 

released to the employee. If the spouse was terminated for other than death, the 

accrued annuity was posted to PREH and a USTAR referral was issued for RBD to pay 

the accrual to the spouse. If the former spouse was in receipt of a divorced spouse 

annuity, the accrued spouse annuity was released to the divorced spouse. 

A special RESCUE run in March 2007 paid accrued annuities resulting from service or 

earnings changes posted to EDM prior to 2006. The terminated employee annuities 

were identified by comparing new SEARCH PIA 1 and gross tier 2 amounts to the 

amounts in PREH. Approximately 15,000 employees were considered in this special 

run. 

If there was an active widow(er)/young mother on the rolls, RESCUE paid the 

employee’s accrued annuity to this survivor annuitant. Based on the high percentage of 

widow(er)s/young mothers who meet “living with” requirements, the Board agreed to 

have RESCUE release the employee’s accrued annuity without a “living with” 

determination in order to facilitate automated handling of the cases. If RESCUE was not 

able to pay the employee’s accrued annuity (the case rejected or there was no active 

widow(er)/young mother on the rolls), examiners should investigate “living with” in the 

normal manner before paying the employee’s accrued annuity. 

If the only active survivor annuitant was a child, a parent, a remarried widow(er), or a 

surviving divorced spouse, RESCUE computed the employee’s accrued annuity and 

posted a 3275-RHACOPO record to PREH with OPO type code A. A USTAR referral 

was issued for SBD to pay the accrued annuity to the appropriate recipients. 

If there was no active survivor annuitant on the rolls, no further action was taken on the 

case after the special RESCUE run. APPLE will issue a referral if a survivor application 

is ever filed; SBD should take action to pay the employee’s accrued annuity that was 

posted to PREH. If RESCUE rejected the case, SBD must have the accrued annuity 

computed by RBD. The Board will waive the two year filing requirement for these

accrued annuity payments. 

In the special run in March 2007, RESCUE also paid spouse/divorced spouse accrued 

annuities if the spouse/divorced spouse was receiving a survivor annuity. If the 

spouse/divorced spouse was not on the rolls as a survivor, RESCUE computed the 

accrued annuity and posted a 3275-RHACOPO record (OPO type code A) to PREH. A
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 75 of 312

 

USTAR referral was issued for RBD to pay the spouse/divorced spouse accrued 

annuity. 

6.8.90 RESCUE SEARCH Computations 

RESCUE will obtain PIAs and AMC computations from the SEARCH system for all 

activated cases found in PREH in final payment status except cases activated solely to 

add delayed retirement credits. 

If RESCUE adjusts the annuity a RESCUE G90 is loaded to the G90 Online Database 

(GOLD). If RESCUE issues a reject referral to USTAR, a RESCUE G90 is loaded to 

GOLD unless the reason for the reject indicates the G90 may be incorrect. 

6.8.91 RESCUE Evaluation 

After obtaining computations from SEARCH, RESCUE evaluates the case to determine 

if an adjustment is needed in: 

• Tier 1 to adjust PIA 1 or to include DRCs earned in the ABD year 

• Tier 2 to correct the basic annuity 

• The supplemental annuity, including both initial payment of a supplemental annuity or 

adjustment of an existing supplemental annuity 

• A SALSA payment is due, including an initial payment or an additional payment 

If the case needs one or more of the above adjustment actions, RESCUE edits the 

information in EDM and PREH and the SEARCH computations to determine if the 

automated adjustment can be made or if the case must be referred for examiner 

handling. 

RESCUE evaluates spouse and divorced spouse annuities if the employee is activated. 

The spouse/divorced spouse tier 1 will be adjusted only if half of the new PIA 1 is 

greater than the spouse/divorced spouse’s current gross tier 1. 

RESCUE does not apply any tolerance when it determines if the annuity needs to be 

adjusted. If RESCUE sees any increase in PIA 1, the tier 2 basic annuity, or the gross 

supplemental annuity amount, RESCUE will send the case to ROC to compute an 

adjustment. If ROC determines that the net monthly rate will not change (for instance, 

tier 1 is reduced to zero by other benefits), an update only award will be sent to PREH. 

6.8.92 RESCUE Processing for Terminated Records 

RESCUE will update the monthly annuity rates for terminated records. The only 

terminated records not activated by RESCUE are: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 76 of 312 

 

• Terminated spouses/divorced spouses when RESCUE rejects the employee 

• Terminated spouses/divorced spouses where the payee code of the record is the 

same as another CPS or terminated spouse/divorced spouse record. 

If an accrued annuity is due in a terminated annuity, RESCUE will post the amount due 

on PREH (3275-RHACOPO record) and USTAR referral will be issued if RESCUE 

cannot determine who is entitled to receive the accrued money. If the employee is 

deceased, the STAR referral will be under the unit code SPR. OP must determine 

appropriate payees for the accrued annuity. Unpaid accruals posted by RESCUE in 

terminated cases can be recognized by the following: 

• The activity source code on the 3275 record is “RESCUR R CO 7205.” • The OPO 

type code on the 3275 record is “COMP ONLY A” 

Prior to November 2006, RESCUE processed PREH update only awards for all 

terminated annuities. Beginning in November 2006, RESCUE processes PREH update 

only awards for the following terminated annuities: 

• Deceased employee – SBD must determine the appropriate payees. If there is an 

active widow, SBD must verify that the widow met “living with” requirements and is 

entitled to the accrued annuity 

In normal RESCUE runs, a change in service or earnings may be detected for 

deceased employees where the annuity was terminated more than two years ago. 

The two year period during which survivors can file an application for the accrued 

annuity should be counted from the date of the RESCUE run, not the date the 

employee was terminated. In this situation, the application should be submitted with 

code 6 manual review on APPLE. 

In order to automate deceased employee accrued annuity payments due in cases 

where service/earnings changes were reported before 2006, the Board authorized 

payment of accrued annuities to active widow(er)s/young mothers without a “living 

with” investigation in the special RESCUE run in March 2007. The waiver of the 

“living with” investigation applies only to cases paid by RESCUE. SBD must

investigate for “living with” before paying deceased employee accrued annuities that

RESCUE was not able to pay. 

• If there was no active survivor annuitant on the rolls at the time of the special 

RESCUE run in March 2007, no further action was taken. APPLE will issue a referral 

in these cases if a survivor application is ever filed. The Board has waived the two 

year filing requirement for payment of the deceased employee’s accrued annuity in 

the cases RESCUE could not pay. Deceased spouse/divorced spouse if the 

employee is deceased 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 77 of 312

 

• Annuities terminated for other than death – RBD must determine if the annuitant is 

alive and obtain a current address 

Beginning in November 2006, RESCUE releases accrued annuity payments in the 

following situations: 

• Deceased spouse/divorced spouse – the accrued annuity is released to the active 

employee 

• Terminated spouse converted to divorced spouse – the accrued annuity is released 

to the divorced spouse 

• Terminated spouse/divorced spouse who is now an active widow(er)/surviving 

divorced spouse – the accrued annuity is released to the active widow(er) or 

surviving divorced spouse 

6.8.93 ROC Processing for RESCUE 

Once RESCUE determines that an annuity needs to be adjusted, RESCUE uses ROC to 

compute the new annuity rates. RESCUE gives ROC the adjustment effective date(s) 

and the G90 ID number. ROC obtains the PIA, service and AMC information that it 

needs from the SEARCH database, and ROC performs its normal computations. 

ROC will obtain RUIA clearance where needed for RESCUE cases. If the RUIA 

recovery amount exceeds the RESCUE accrual, the case will be referred to WORKLIST 

in the normal manner. The list will show that the award originated in RESCUE. 

Voucher number 575 is used for all RESCUE retirement awards. 

ROC does the following as part of its processing for RESCUE awards: 

• Tier 1 social security offset amounts are obtained from PREH’s tier 1 records. 

ROC does not call JADE for RESCUE awards. 

• If temporary work deductions are in force (regular and/or LPE) equal to the full 

work deduction component amount, ROC recomputes the work deduction 

components based on the new tier 1, tier 2 and supplemental annuity and 

continues to withhold the maximum amounts. RESCUE will ask ROC to adjust 

the tier only from the later of January of the current year or the month TWDs 

began; ROC will restrict its accrual calculation to that date. If the TWDs are only 

partial amounts, RESCUE will refer the case for examiner handling. 

• If the annuity is reduced for a fixed non-partition deduction, ROC derives the 

beginning date of the deduction by comparing the annuity rate and deduction 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 78 of 312 

 

history in PREH. All cases with partition deductions and all cases with 

percentage deductions are referred by RESCUE for examiner handling. 

• If the spouse tier 1 is reduced for dual RR entitlement, ROC goes to the spouse’s 

employee annuity to obtain the amount (gross or net employee tier 1) by which to 

reduce the spouse tier 1. If the employee annuity is archived (no tier 1 history in 

PREH), ROC will use the maximum dual offset amount found in the spouse’s tier 

1 records. 

• If tier 1 is adjusted for months between December 1999 and June 2001, 

RESCUE gives ROC a deduction amount representing the CPI accrual paid for 

those months. 

• RESCUE performs special computations to derive accrual amounts payable for 

years before 1995. ROC adds these pre-1995 accrual amounts to the accrual 

which it computes for years after 1994. 

• ROC will process PREH-update-only awards if the current recurring monthly rate 

does not change 

RESCUE awards are processed in ROC during the last week of the month. If a

RESCUE award is pending vouchering in ROC, examiners should defer any award

action on the case until after the RESCUE award is vouchered, unless the

RESCUE award will create an error in the case. If the pending RESCUE award

should not be allowed to voucher, a lead examiner or supervisor should delete the 

RESCUE award from ROC. The service and earnings change that RESCUE was 

going to voucher should be taken into consideration in the examiner award. 

If a RESCUE award rejects in DAISY, the ROC award will be sent to the ROC reject 

Inbox in WORKFLOW. Examiners can correct the problem that caused the reject and 

submit the RESCUE computations again. If examiners decide to recompute the

RESCUE award in any way, the RESCUE award should be deleted from ROC. In

preparing their own awards examiners should consider the service and earnings

change that RESCUE was going to voucher. 

6.8.94 RESCUE Pre-1995 Accruals 

ROC is able to perform calculations for RESCUE only for the months for which history is 

available in PREH. For the majority of cases that were already on the rolls at the time 

PREH was first loaded in June 1995, the database only has history retroactive to 

December 1994. The earliest adjustment effective date RESCUE gives to ROC for 

calculations is January 1, 1995. 

If the ABD of the case is before 1995 and tier 2 is increasing or the PIA 1 is increasing 

prior to 1995, RESCUE uses special processing to compute amounts payable for 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 79 of 312

 

months prior to January 1995. The special accruals calculated are then given to ROC to 

add to the accrual ROC calculates for months after 1994. 

Tier 1 accrual for months before 1995 is calculated as follows by RESCUE: 

• The new raw PIA 1 is adjusted for all tier 1 cost-of-living increases through 

December 1994. 

• The new tier 1 amount payable for December 1994 is computed. The computation 

uses the DRCs shown in PREH for December 1994, and all offset amounts that are 

shown in PREH for December 1994 (social security benefit, public service pension, 

maximum dual entitlement offset). The age reduction amount is computed using the 

number of age reduction months shown in PREH. 

• This amount is compared to the December 1994 net tier 1 in PREH 

• The difference in the two rates is multiplied by the number of months from the PIA 1 

effective date through December 1994 

• Sample: The employee tier 1 is reduced by 3 months. The net tier 1 previously paid 

for December 1994 was $979.40. The eligibility year is 1980. RESCUE finds the 

employee is due a PIA 1 increase from January 1983. RESCUE computes the 

pre1995 tier 1 accrual as follows: 

 

Step Computation 

1 

Add cumulative COLs to the January 1983 raw PIA 1: 

$484.70 (raw PIA 1) x 2.05756 (cumulative COLs 1980-1994) = 

$997.20 new December 1994 PIA 1 

2 

Age reduce the December 1994 gross tier 1: 

$997.00 (new December 1994 gross tier 1) x .98333 (age reduction 

factor) = $980.38 new December 1994 net tier 1 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 80 of 312

 

Step Computation 

3 

Compute the December 1994 net increase in tier 1 

$980.38 - $979.40 = 0.98 net increase in December 1994 tier 1 

4 

Compute total pre-1995 tier 1 accrual: 

$0.98 x 144 months (January 1983 – December 1994) = $141.12 pre1995 tier 1 accrual paid by RESCUE 

Tier 2 accrual amounts for months before 1995 are computed as follows by RESCUE: 

• The current tier 2 basic annuity shown in PREH is subtracted from the new tier 2 

basic annuity computed by SEARCH for RESCUE 

• The difference in the two amounts is reduced for age using the age reduction 

months shown in PREH. For spouses, the increase in the tier 2 basic annuity is 

multiplied by 45 percent, and this amount is reduced for age. 

• The age reduced increase in the tier 2 basic annuity is adjusted for each tier 2 

cost of living increase to which the annuitant is entitled through December 1994. 

Each COL-adjusted amount is multiplied by the appropriate number of months 

for which that amount is payable. 

• Sample: The employee is due a tier 2 increase from the ABD of August 1, 1991. 

The annuity is age reduced by 28 months. 

 

Step Computation 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 81 of 312

 

1 

Compute the increase in the tier 2 basic annuity: 

$422.17 (new basic tier 2) - $414.72 (current basic tier 2) = $7.45 

2 

Age reduce the increase in the basic tier 2: 

$7.45 x .84444 (age reduction factor) = $6.29 

3 

Add COLs to the age-reduced increase in the tier 2 basic annuity 

and round up to the penny: 

$6.29 x 1.012 (December 1991 COL) = $6.37 

$6.37 x 1.01 (December 1992 COL) = $6.44 

Step Computation 

$6.44 x 1.008 (December 1993 COL) = $6.50 

$6.50 x 1.009 (December 1994 COL) = $6.56 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 82 of 312 

 

4 

Accrue the increase amounts: 

$6.29 x 4 (August 1991 – November 1991) = $25.16 

$6.37 x 12 (December 1991 – November 1992) = $76.44 $6.44 

x 12 (December 1992 – November 1993) = $77.28 $6.50 x 12 

(December 1993 – November 1994) = $78.00 

$6.56 x 1 (December 1994) = $6.56 

5 The total pre-1995 tier 2 accrual paid by RESCUE is $263.44 

The tier 1 and tier 2 computations described above produce accrual amounts that are 

different from the amounts that would be computed if the tier 1 and tier 2 accruals were 

computed manually using history found in the folder for years before 1995. In the 

majority of cases, the formula RESCUE uses for tier 1 will produce an amount higher 

than the amount that would be computed manually. The formula used by RESCUE to 

compute pre-1995 tier 2 accruals produces an amount that may be a few dollars more 

than the amount that would be computed manually. 

Board Order 05-72 dated November 23, 2005 authorizes the use of these formulas by 

RESCUE in order to facilitate automated annuity adjustments for years prior to 1995. 

Accrual amounts calculated and paid by RESCUE in accordance with these formulas 

are considered by Board Order 05-72 to be the correct amount due for the period prior 

to 1995. Annuitants who are paid an accrual by RESCUE for years before 1995 can ask 

for verification that RESCUE followed the rules of the formulas, but they cannot appeal 

the fact that RESCUE used the formulas for its calculations. 

The formulas authorized by Board Order 05-72 are strictly for use by the RESCUE

system. If a case referred by RESCUE for manual handling needs adjustment for years 

before 1995, the computations should be done on ROC. If PREH does not have 

complete history for the case, history for years before 1995 should be obtained from the 

folder. 

6.8.95 RESCUE ROC Awards 

RESCUE awards can be viewed in: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 83 of 312

 

• The ROC database using the normal online viewing screens (RESCUE awards will 

be purged from the ROC database using the normal purge schedule), and 

• The electronic folder in the Imaging system if the RESCUE award is vouchered 

The ROC RESCUE awards display explanatory information on both the award forms 

and the online screens: 

 

ROC screen Award form Explanation 

General Information Remarks 

Remarks message explains the 

actions taken by RESCUE. For 

example, 

“RESCUE/PIA/T2/SUPP/ADJ” 

Tier 1 Payment Summary Remarks 

Remarks message explains any 

restrictions on the RESCUE tier 1 

adjustment effective date. For 

example, “RESCUE T1 ACCR 

LIMITED BY WORK DED” 

Tier 2 Payment Summary Remarks 

Remarks message explains any 

restrictions on the RESCUE tier 2 

adjustment effective date. For 

example, “RESCUE T2 ACCR 

LIMITED BY PREV OM”. 

Supplemental Annuity 

Payment Summary 

Remarks 

Remarks message explains any 

restrictions on the RESCUE 

supplemental annuity adjustment 

effective date. For example, 

“RESCUE SUPP ACCR LIMITED BY 

PREH HISTORY” 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 84 of 312 

 

Additional Amounts 

Additional 

Amounts block 

 RESCUE 

ADDITIONS 

T1 B4 11-83 

T1 B4 11-85 

T1 B4 12-94 

If RESCUE computes pre-1995 

accrual amounts, the tier 1 and/or tier 

2 amounts paid are displayed along 

with the accrual period beginning 

date. The amounts are broken down 

into the appropriate tax accounting 

components. 

Note: If the RESCUE award is

preempted by an examiner, the preROC screen Award form Explanation 

T2 B4 11-83 

T2 B4 12-94 

1995 accrual information should be 

deleted using the PF4 key. 

Tier 1 Accrual Summary Deduction 

Amounts block 

The CPI accrual deduction, if any, is 

displayed as a “PREV OPO” 

Tier 1 Accrual Summary Remarks 

If RESCUE computes a pre-1995 tier 

1 accrual, the accrual effective date 

and the 1994 raw PIA 1 are displayed.

Tier 2 Accrual Summary Remarks 

If RESCUE computes a pre-1995 tier 

2 accrual, the accrual effective date 

and the gross tier 2 increase amount 

are displayed. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 85 of 312

 

Final Rates and Accrual 

Summary 

Remarks • If RESCUE computed an accrued 

annuity for a terminated case, 

“ACCRL DUE AT TERM” is 

displayed in Remarks. 

• The ACCRUAL PER FROM date 

displayed is the date from which 

ROC calculated accrual amounts. 

If RESCUE paid accrual amounts 

for years before 1995, ACCRUAL 

PER FROM date will be 

01/01/1995, the date from which 

ROC calculated its portion of the 

total accrual. 

6.8.96 RESCUE Award Letters 

Form letters RL-119R (recertification award) and RL-45R (one-time payment) are used 

to notify annuitants of RESCUE award actions. A sample of the letter templates can be 

found in Exhibit 32 (RL-119R) and Exhibit 33 (RL-45R). A copy of the RESCUE letter 

can be found in the electronic folder in the Imaging system. 

One or more special paragraphs are used to explain the RESCUE award action. The 

RESCUE paragraphs are provided below: 

 

Reason for adjustment RESCUE paragraph 

Add DRCs to tier 1 

“Additional credits are payable in the tier 1 portion of 

your annuity. You earned a credit for each month 

before your annuity began last year during which 

you were between full retirement age and age 70.” 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 86 of 312

 

Increase PIA 1 or tier 2 

(supplemental annuity may 

also be adjusted) “An adjustment was made to the service months 

and/or earnings reported for you. The adjustment 

increases the amount of your monthly annuity. A 

total of ___ service months are used to compute 

your annuity. This is the number of reported 

service months and creditable military service 

months prior to the beginning date of your annuity.” 

Increase in PIA 1, tier 2, or 

supplemental annuity due to 

service/earnings changes 

posted before 2005 (released 

in the special backlog run to 

employees with ABDs before 

2005) 

Recent system improvements make it possible for 

us to review all our records. This review shows 

your service and earnings record was adjusted 

sometime after you retired. The adjustment 

increases the amount of your monthly annuity. A 

total of ___ service months are used to compute 

your annuity. This is the number of reported 

railroad service months and creditable military 

service months prior to the beginning date of your 

annuity. 

Add deemed service months 

“For one or more years after 1984, your former 

railroad employer reported more compensation 

than the amount allowable for the number of 

service months reported. We used the extra 

compensation to give you additional service 

months.” 

RRSIA 60/30 with delayed tier 1 

increase for ABD year earnings 

“Because your tier 1 annuity component is 

computed under Social Security Act rules, the 

additional earnings cannot be included in your tier 1 

until the year after you attain age 62. We will adjust 

your tier 1 automatically when you become eligible.” 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 87 of 312

 

RRSIA 60/30 tier 1 increase at 

age 62 “An increase is payable in your railroad retirement 

annuity because you have attained age sixty-two. 

Your earnings in the year your annuity began and 

later years can now be used in the tier 1 portion of 

your annuity.” 

Reason for adjustment RESCUE paragraph 

Tier 1 adjustment for additional 

SS wages 

“Additional wages that you earned outside the 

railroad industry are now available to include in the 

tier 1 portion of your annuity.” 

Increase in supplemental 

annuity (used if the regular 

annuity is not adjusted) 

“An adjustment was made to the service months 

reported for you. The additional service months 

increase the amount of your monthly supplemental 

annuity.” 

Initial supplemental annuity 

payment 

“An adjustment was made to the service months 

reported for you. You are now entitled to a 

supplemental annuity.” 

Initial SALSA payment “Your former railroad employer paid to you a 

separation allowance or severance payment. Your 

employer correctly deducted railroad retirement tier 

2 taxes from this payment. These taxes did not 

produce an increase in your monthly railroad 

retirement benefits. As a result, you are due a 

special payment based on these taxes.” 

Additional SALSA payment “Your former railroad employer paid to you a 

separation allowance or severance payment. Your 

employer correctly deducted railroad retirement tier 

2 taxes from this payment. These taxes did not 

produce an increase in your monthly railroad 

retirement benefits. After you retired, we sent to 

you a special payment based on these taxes. We 

have now received new information from your 

former employer. As a result, you are due another 

special payment based on the taxes you paid.” 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 88 of 312 

 

Spouse or divorced spouse 

adjustment 

“An adjustment in the employee’s annuity results in 

an increase in your annuity.” 

Deceased spouse accrued 

annuity paid to employee The adjustment in your annuity results in an 

increase in the annuity that was previously paid to 

your spouse. By law, you are entitled to receive all 

unpaid accrual due on your spouse’s account. 

Terminated spouse accrued 

annuity paid to divorced spouse

A change has been made to the service and 

earnings record of the railroad employee. This 

results in an increase in the spouse annuity 

previously paid to you. 

Reason for adjustment RESCUE paragraph 

Deceased employee accrued 

annuity paid to 

widow(er)/young mother (used 

only in the special RESCUE run 

in March 2007) 

“A change has been made to the service and 

earnings record of the railroad employee. By law 

you are entitled to receive all unpaid accrual due on 

the employee’s account.” 

6.8.97 Tracking RESCUE Actions 

If RESCUE determines the annuity should be adjusted, the results of the RESCUE run 

can be determined by the following: 

• Adjusted cases will have a RESCUE ROC award and a letter in the electronic folder 

in the Imaging system and a G90 in GOLD. PREH records of the RESCUE 

adjustment will contain the source code of “RESCUR”. 

• Rejected cases will have a referral in STAR under the unit code “RUE” or “SPR” and 

a G90 in GOLD (unless RESCUE decided the SEARCH computations were not 

reliable). 

If RESCUE determines the annuity does not need to be adjusted, there is no STAR 

referral and there is no G90 in GOLD. For each RESCUE run, an Excel spreadsheet is 

available in the RESCUE NAN folder in the Share server of the USRRB domain 

(\\Share\RESCUE NAT N)T containing the claim numbers of records in which activity 

was posted to EDM and considered by RESCUE but the activity did not result in a 

change in the annuity. The spreadsheet provides the following information: 

• The last railroad earnings year on record at the time of the RESCUE run 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 89 of 312 

 

• The railroad service months and compensation in the last earnings year on record at 

the time of the RESCUE run 

• The last social security earnings year on record at the time of the RESCUE run 

• The social security wages in the last wage year on record at the time of the RESCUE 

run (wages will be shown only if the wage year is within twenty years of the current 

calendar year). 

A second spreadsheet is available in the RESCUE NAN folder with the claim numbers of 

RRSIA 60/30 employees who attained age sixty-two in the previous calendar year and 

ABD year earnings do not produce an increase in PIA 1. This spreadsheet contains the 

ABD year and the date of birth. 

When Field Service representatives check to determine if a case was considered by 

RESCUE, they should take the following steps: 

• Start by checking PREH and/or the electronic folder in the Imaging system. If no 

RESCUE award is found, then 

• Check FieldStar for a referral with unit code RUE. For further information about a 

RESCUE referral, send an email to the general RBD mailbox. If no RESCUE referral 

is found in STAR, then 

• Check the RESCUE NAN folder in the shared area of USRRB (\\Share\RESCUET 

NAN)T 

6.8.98 RESCUE Referrals 

RESCUE edits the EDM, PREH and SEARCH information before attempting to adjust 

any case. The evaluation process may result in a reject from the automated system, or 

the case may be adjusted by RESCUE but a referral is issued for further examiner 

action. The chart below provides the referral codes and explanations for those 

situations in which RESCUE cannot adjust the annuity or the automated adjustment 

must be followed by additional examiner review. 

Note 1: When handling a RESCUE reject, always check for and make all necessary 

adjustments in tier 1, tier 2, the supplemental annuity and the SALSA. 

Note 2: When handling an employee reject, always check PREH for terminated spouse 

and divorced spouse records and determine if accrued annuities are due. 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 90 of 312

 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

01 Review 

The OM was previously payable and PIA 9 is now increasing. 

Adjust the OM for the months it was in effect. 

02 Reject 

The OM is currently payable or was previously payable and 

PIA 9 is now decreasing. Investigate the reason for the 

decrease. Adjust the OM, and check for any 

increase/decrease in the regular RR formula rate. 

03 Not used 

04 Reject 

Service months have increased for the 1937/1974 Act 

employee annuity. Obtain a G90 and pay any tier 1 and tier 2 

increase due. 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

05 Reject 

The tier 2 basic annuity has decreased. Investigate the 

reason for the decrease. Adjust tier 2 and check for any 

changes in tier 1, the supplemental annuity or the SALSA. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 91 of 312

 

06 Reject 

PIA 1 is decreasing. Investigate the reason for the decrease. 

Adjust tier 1 and check for any changes in tier 2, the 

supplemental annuity or the SALSA. 

07 Reject 

PIA 1 is increasing for the 1937/1974 Act age-reduced 

annuity. 

08 Review 

The SALSA amount has decreased. Investigate the reason 

for the decrease and take appropriate recovery actions. 

09 Reject 

A service/earnings report submitted by the railroad rejected 

from EDM. Send the case to PEMS – Compensation and 

Employer Services (CES) to resolve the problem, then request 

a new G90. 

10 Review 

Deeming of service months has not been resolved for one or 

more years. Referral goes to PEMS – CES to resolve the 

deeming. 

11 Reject 

Service is reported for months after the ABD. If EDM 

indicates an investigation is pending, hold the case for a 

resolution then request a new G90. If a return to RR service 

has been confirmed, request a new G90 and make all 

necessary adjustments. 

12 Review 

Tier 1 and tier 2 compensation discrepancies exist in one or 

more years. Referral goes to PEMS – CES to resolve the 

problem. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 92 of 312

 

13 Reject 

The account number in EDM is not verified. Send the case to 

PEMS- CES to resolve the problem then request a new G90. 

14 Reject 

Earnings before 1975 have changed and the employee 

receives a VDB. Adjust tier 1, tier 2, the VDB, and the 

supplemental annuity as needed. 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

15 Reject 

The disabled employee has earnings over $4999.99 in a year 

after the ABD but before attainment of FRA. Adjust the 

annuity as needed with appropriate disability work deductions.

16 Reject 

SEARCH rejected RESCUE’s request for computations. 

Request a new G90 and make any necessary changes in the 

annuity. 

17 Reject 

SS wages posted on the account may be a duplication of RR 

earnings for the year. Investigate and request a new G90. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 93 of 312

 

18 Reject 

There is a discrepancy between the type of annuity according 

to PREH and the type of annuity according to SEARCH. 

Request a new G90 and make all necessary changes in the 

annuity. 

19 Reject 

EDM does not show a sufficient number of service months for 

the type of annuity being paid. 

20 Review The Frozen Minimum PIA may apply. Recertify tier 1. 

21 Reject 

The employee has multiple SSNs. Send the case to 

PEMSCES to validate the information in EDM. Request a 

new G90 when the earnings record is correct. 

22 Reject 

The PIA 1 eligibility year in PREH and the eligibility year used 

by SEARCH are discrepant. Request a new G90. 

23 Review 

The employee has more than 4 periods of MS. Request new 

PIA and tier 2 computations using all appropriate MS. 

24 Reject 

The correct 1959 earnings amount could not be determined. 

Request a new G90. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 94 of 312

 

25 Reject 

The RRSIA 5 year annuity contains a tier 1 amount but the 

employee does not have the required SS insured status to 

receive a tier 1. 

26 Review 

Railroad service and/or compensation are reported for the 

current calendar year. Control the case until SEARCH can 

include the current year information in PIAs and tier 2 then 

request a new G90. 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

27 Reject 

PREH military service records may not be accurate. Validate 

the number of MS months used as RR service on the 

RESCUE G90. Request a new G90 as needed. 

28 Reject 

The employee’s earnings record contains a previously 

reported error. Request new PIA and or tier 2 computations 

as needed. 

29 Reject 

The annuity is in suspense. Control for reinstatement and 

adjust the annuity for the change in service and/or earnings. 

If the annuity is suspended for debt recovery, prepare a ROC 

award and use any accrual to reduce the debt. Voucher the 

award as a reinstatement if the accrual fully recovers the debt. 

Voucher the award as a PREH update only if the accrual does 

not fully recover the overpayment. Take necessary actions to 

update the PARS records also. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 95 of 312

 

30 Reject There is an unhandled COLA reject in the case. 

31 Reject PIA 1 must be modified for NCSP. 

32 Reject The annuity has not yet been paid final. 

33 Reject 

• The annuity is currently reduced for any type of 3rdP party P 

partition deduction, or 

• The annuity is reduced for a non-partition deduction that is 

based on a percentage, or 

• ROC cannot determine the correct beginning date for the 

3rdP party deduction, or P

• The annuity was previously reduced for a 3rdP party P 

deduction that is now terminated. 

34 Reject Tier 2 must be indexed 

35 Reject 

Tier 1 is reduced for worker’s compensation benefits or public 

disability benefits and the change in earnings may affect those 

offset amounts. 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 96 of 312

 

36 Reject 

The administrative finality date of birth is missing from PREH. 

Request a new G90. 

37 Reject 

Administrative finality was previously applied to a change in 

the earnings record or to previous payments. 

38 Reject 

The employee is also entitled to a spouse/survivor annuity and 

the spouse/survivor tier 1 is greater than zero. Adjust both 

annuities. 

39 Reject 

A record was found in PARS for this claim number but there is 

no annuitant identification code for the overpayment. 

40 Reject 

A supplemental annuity is now payable but the supp 

attainment code in PREH does not indicate if the employee 

has a RR pension or not. RESCUE adjusted tier 1, tier 2 and 

the SALSA as needed. 

41 Reject 

The spouse annuity is based on a child who has attained age 

18. 

42 Reject 

The divorced spouse was previously entitled as a spouse, but 

the ABD for the previous annuity is missing from PREH. 

43 Reject An activity is already pending in ROC for this claim number. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 97 of 312

 

44 Review 

PREH does not contain complete tier 1 history after 1994. 

Adjust tier 1 for months prior to the RESCUE adjustment 

effective date. 

45 Reject 

PREH history has been archived for the annuitant. Contact 

BIS-DMG to have the history restored to PREH. 

46 Reject There are gaps in the tier 1 and/or tier 2 history in PREH. 

47 Review 

The annuitant is deceased. RESCUE adjusted the tier history 

and posted an accrued annuity to PREH. Pay the accrual to 

appropriate survivor annuitants. 

48 Reject 

The annuitant is entitled to more than one annuity and both 

annuities are active in the RESCUE run. 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

49 Reject 

The adjustment effective date determined by RESCUE is a 

future date, or the termination effective date is before the 

RESCUE adjustment effective date. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 98 of 312

 

50 Reject 

The employee receives an age reduced annuity, but the 

employee has acquired 30 years of railroad service. Remove 

the age reduction. 

51 Reject 

There is a survivor A-prefix record but there is no employee 

record in PREH. RESCUE could not obtain survivor 

SEARCH computations. 

52 Reject 

The OM is currently payable. Adjust the OM if PIA 9 is 

increasing. Update the regular RR formula annuity 

information for any changes in PIA 1 and/or tier 2. Check for 

a supplemental annuity change or a SALSA payment due. 

53 Review 

The OM formula was previously paid. RESCUE adjusted tier 

1 from the date the RR formula was paid. Make any further 

payments or updates to PREH for tier 1. 

54 Reject 

No current RESCUE SEARCH computations were found. 

Request a new G90. 

55 Review 

Military service months were previously required to establish 

eligibility. Additional RR service has been posted to EDM and 

the employee is now eligible without MS. Check for potential 

impact on vesting. 

56 Reject 

The employee has service months prior to 1937. Verify both 

the total service and the AMC; request a new G90 if needed. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 99 of 312

 

57 Reject PIA 1 is modified for NCSP and the YOCs have increased. 

58 Review 

A retirement application is pending on APPLE. Check to see 

if the initial G90 reflects all service and earnings shown in 

EDM. 

59 Review 

A survivor application is pending on APPLE. Check to see if 

the wage record reflects all service and earnings shown in 

EDM. 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

60 Reject 

The case has an outstanding overpayment and either the OIG 

is investigating the case or the beneficiary’s due process 

rights have not yet expired. 

61 Reject 

PARS has more than 5 overpayment balances on the claim 

number. 

62 Reject 

PARS has more than 1 type of overpayment for the annuitant 

(for example, both an RRA debt and a Medicare debt). 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 100 of 312

 

63 Reject 

PARS type of overpayment does not agree with PREH partial 

withholding overpayment source code. 

64 Review 

PREH does not contain complete tier 2 history after 1994. 

Adjust tier 2 for months prior to the RESCUE adjustment 

effective date. 

65 Review 

Non-exclusion applies to PIA 1 and the employee has 

earnings after the eligibility year. Request new PIA 

calculations to include the additional wages. 

66 Review 

The disabled employee has earnings between the disability 

onset and FRA. Request new PIA calculations to include the 

additional earnings. 

67 Review 

PREH does not contain complete supplemental annuity 

history after 1994. Adjust the supplemental annuity for 

months prior to the RESCUE adjustment effective date. 

68 Reject 

RUIA clearance is needed for the annuity adjustment and 

there is an open RUIA debt on PARS. The clearance amount 

returned to ROC may or may not include the open debt on 

PARS. 

69 Reject 

The supplemental annuity is increasing but the current 

supplemental annuity payment is not reduced for the RR 

pension shown in PREH. Adjust tier 1 and tier 2 as needed 

also. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 101 of 312

 

70 Reject 

The supplemental annuity needs to be adjusted but the RR 

pension effective date cannot be determined from the 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

supplemental annuity history in PREH. RESCUE adjusted tier 

1, tier 2 and the SALSA as needed. 

71 Reject The initial PIA 1 formula is TRANS but the formula switches to 

AIME. 

72 Reject PREH indicates military service has been used as RR service, 

but the current tier 2 does not include MS. 

73 Review 

The effective date of the tier 1 adjustment was restricted to 

January of the year after tier 1 work deductions ceased to be 

withheld. If tier 1 work deductions ended in the current year, 

the tier 1 adjustment was restricted to the month after the 

work deductions ended. Adjust tier 1 and work deductions for 

earlier months. 

74 Reject 

• Partial work deduction withholding is currently in force, or 

• Work deductions were previously withheld but the ending 

date of the work deduction withholding is unknown(either 

there is no ending date in PREH or the ending date 

conflicts with the withholding history) 

• Tier 1 work deductions are in force but there is no PIA 17 

available 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 102 of 312

 

75 Reject 

• The termination effective date is later than the termination 

accounting date. The case may have been in suspense 

prior to termination, or 

• The annuitant died prior to 1995. Obtain payment history 

from the folder. 

76 Reject There is EDM activity for an employee with an ABD before 

1950. Obtain manual PIA and AMC computations. 

77 Reject No record was found in PREH for the annuitant. 

78 Reject 

The spouse has a dual entitlement reduction in tier 2, or 

PREH does not contain the tier 2 restored amount effective 

date for the dual spouse. 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

79 Reject 

RRSIA 5 year age reduced annuity with tier 1 SS offset but 

there is no information in PREH about the type of SS benefit 

or the date of entitlement. 

80 Reject 

The case involves more than one active spouse or more than 

one active divorced spouse. 

81 Reject 

Additional service gives the employee 120 service months. 

Recalculate the annuity under non-RRSIA rules and correct 

PREH information. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 103 of 312

 

82 Review 

The effective date of the tier 2 adjustment was restricted to 

January of the year after tier 2 work deductions ceased to be 

withheld. If tier 2 work deductions ended in the current year, 

the tier 2 adjustment was restricted to the month after the 

work deductions ended. Adjust tier 2 and work deductions for 

earlier months. 

83 Review 

The effective date of the supplemental annuity adjustment 

was restricted to January of the year after supplemental 

annuity work deductions ceased to be withheld. If 

supplemental annuity work deductions ended in the current 

year, the supplemental annuity adjustment was restricted to 

the month after the work deductions ended. Adjust the 

supplemental annuity and work deductions for earlier months. 

84 Reject 

Service months have decreased. The supplemental annuity 

is overpaid, or may be overpaid for months before the RR 

pension began. 

85 Reject 

Tier 1 needs to be adjusted but tier 1 has a felony code for a 

period after January 1995. 

86 Review 

Temporary work deductions are in force. RESCUE adjusted 

tier 1 from January of the current year or the month TWDs 

began if later. Adjust tier 1 for previous months. 

87 Reject 

The spouse current gross tier 2 is more than 45% of the 

employee’s basic tier 2. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 104 of 312

 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

88 Reject 

The spouse current gross tier 1 is more than 50% of the 

employee’s PIA. 

89 Reject 

Non-exclusion applies to PIA 1 but the eligibility year in PREH 

appears incorrect. 

90 Review 

The employee who receives a disability annuity has acquired 

30 years of service. Correct the annuity type code in PREH to 

insure proper payment of spouse annuities. 

91 Reject The divorced spouse has excess earnings. 

92 Review 

The special minimum PIA applies in tier 1. The regular PIA 1 

has increased; update the regular PIA 1, AIME/AMW and 

YOCs in PREH. 

93 Review 

The OM formula was previously paid. RESCUE adjusted tier 

2 from the date the RR formula was paid. Make any further 

payments or updates to PREH for tier 2. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 105 of 312

 

94 Review 

Temporary work deductions are in force. RESCUE adjusted 

tier 2 from January of the current year or the month TWDs 

began if later. Adjust tier 2 for previous months. 

95 Review 

Supplemental annuity temporary work deductions are in force. 

RESCUE adjusted the supplemental annuity from 

January of the current year or the month TWDs began if later. 

Adjust the supplemental annuity and work deductions for 

previous months. 

96 Reject 

Earnings are posted to EDM for a year after the employee 

died. 

97 Reject 

The terminated spouse has the same payee code as another 

spouse record. 

98 Reject ROC calculated a rate decrease or a negative accrual. 

99 Reject 

• The spouse was rejected because the employee rejected, 

or 

• ROC rejected the employee because the spouse award 

had to be rejected 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 106 of 312

 

100(1A 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

Pre-1995 tier 2 accrual may be due. RESCUE did not pay an 

accrual for years before 1995 because: 

• Tier 2 was previously reduced to zero by the VDB, the 

takeback, or the RRA maximum, or 

• The OM formula was in force in December 1994, or 

• Tier 2 was withheld in December 1994 due to a return to RR 

service, or 

• Disability work deductions were withheld in December 1994, 

or 

• The spouse is a dual RR annuitant and tier 1 increased for 

years before 1995 so the tier 2 restored amount needs to be 

adjusted, or 

• LPE work deductions were withheld before 1995 

101 (1B 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

Pre-1995 tier 1 accrual may be due. Rescue did not pay an 

accrual for years before 1995 because: 

• The OM formula was in force in December 1994, or 

• Tier 1 was withheld in December 1994 due to a return to RR 

service, or 

• Disability work deductions were withheld in December 1994, 

or 

• PREH does not contain a tier 1 record for December 1994, 

or 

• Tier 1 was withheld in December 1994 for felony, noncitizenship, or deportation, or 

• RESCUE previously paid a tier 1 accrual for years before 

1995, or 

• The tier 1 PIA is AMW formula or TRANS formula, or 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 107 of 312

 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

• The spouse is a dual RR annuitant and the December 1994 

maximum dual offset amount is zero in PREH or the tier 2 

restored amount needs to be adjusted before 1995, or 

• Tier 1 work deductions were withheld before 1995, or 

• Tier 1 was reduced for worker’s compensation or public 

disability benefits in December 1994 

102 (1C 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

Multiple PIA 1 increases are due before 1995. RESCUE paid 

the latest increase. Adjust tier 1 for the earlier increases. 

103 (1D 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

1937/1974 Act dual spouse and the tier 2 restored amount 

must be adjusted. 

104 (1E 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

The annuitant is deceased and there are no active survivor 

annuitants. RESCUE computed an accrued annuity and 

posted it to PREH. Determine if there are any payees entitled 

to the accrued annuity. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 108 of 312

 

105 (1F 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

The annuitant is terminated for a reason other than death. 

RESCUE computed an accrued annuity and posted it to 

PREH. Investigate to determine if the annuitant is still alive, 

obtain the correct address, and pay the accrued annuity. If 

the annuitant is deceased, determine if there are survivors 

who should receive the accrued annuities. 

106 (1G 

on 

STAR) 

N/A Used in June and September of 2006 only. 

107 (1H 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

RESCUE adjusted the supplemental annuity from January 

1995. Pay the supplemental annuity accrual due before 

1995. 

108 (1J 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

One of the following is true: 

• VDB waiver code is set in PREH, or 

• Part of the annuity is being waived, or 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

• Part of the annuity was previously waived 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 109 of 312

 

109 (1K 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

PIA 1 has increased but the PIA formula is not AIME. Adjust 

tier 1. 

110 (1L 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

One or more records in PREH have more than 50 

occurrences. 

111 (1M 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

RESCUE computed a pre-1995 tier 2 accrual of more than 

$15,000.00 (employee) or $7,000.00 (spouse). 

112 (1N 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

RESCUE computed a pre-1995 tier 1 accrual of more than 

$5,000.00 (employee) or $2,500.00 (spouse). 

113 (1P 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

Tier 1 is paid with the special minimum PIA 1 and the YOCs are 

increasing. 

114 (1Q 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

ROC calculated an accrual greater than $20,000.00 

(employee) or $10,000.00 (spouse). 

115 

(1R on 

STAR) 

Reject 

ROC cannot determine the maximum dual offset amount for 

the spouse because the spouse’s own employee annuity is 

archived. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 110 of 312

 

116 (1S 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

Tier 2 needs to be adjusted but the $10.00 minimum guaranty 

applies or previously applied to the current tier 2. 

117 (1T 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

Employee and spouse rejected because one or both has an 

outstanding overpayment, or divorced spouse rejected 

because the divorced spouse has an outstanding 

overpayment. The indication of an outstanding overpayment 

is: 

• An open debt on PARS, or 

STAR 

referral 

code 

Reject or 

review 

Explanation 

• The annuity is currently reduced for partial withholding 

118 (1U 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

ROC was unable to correctly prefill information from PREH, or 

there was an error in the ROC calculations. 

119 (1V 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

The employee tier 2 was previously reduced for the RRA 

maximum. Roc cannot compute tier 2 correctly because the 

employee and spouse tier 2 adjustments have different 

effective dates. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 111 of 312 

 

120 (1W 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

Tier 2 decreased but the PIA 1 increased by a greater amount 

so ROC adjusted the annuity. Investigate the reason for the 

tier 2 decrease; request EDM corrections and/or adjust the 

annuity where appropriate. 

121 (1X 

on 

STAR) 

Review 

PIA 1 decreased but tier 2 increased by a greater amount so 

ROC adjusted the annuity. Investigate the reason for the PIA 

1 decrease; request EDM corrections and/or adjust the 

annuity where appropriate. 

122 (1Y 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

There was an active widow(er)/young mother on the rolls but 

RESCUE could not compute the entire accrued annuity for the 

deceased employee. Compute the accrued annuity and 

investigate for “living with” before paying the amount. 

123 (1Z 

on 

STAR) 

Reject 

SEARCH computed incorrect PIA 1 recomputations for the 

RRSIA 60/30 employee. 

124 Reject 

Independent XA – request a G90 to obtain the latest wage 

record and adjust annuity if necessary. Also consider possible 

partition entitlement and needed change in rate due to 

additional earnings. 

Appendices 

Appendix A - Mass Adjustment Reject And Review Codes 

I. The following described mass adjustment microfilm format is used for all mass 

mechanical annuity adjustment operations beginning December 1, 1988 through 

December 1991. Information for all 1991 and later mass adjustments is stored in 

the Mass Adjustment Inquiry System (MAIS) in RRAPID. See RCM 1T 6 T for 

details. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 112 of 312

 

 

Item Title Contents 

(1) 

 

 

 

 

 

CLAIM NUMBER 

 

 

 

 

 

The beneficiary symbol, prefix and claim number. 

Below this information "PC" is followed by the 

CHICO payee code and in divorced spouse and 

survivor cases "SYM" is followed by one of the 

symbols below: 

Symbol Type of Beneficiary 

A Disabled Widower 

B Father (Widower) 

C Minor child 

D Disabled child 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 113 of 312 

 

F Father (parent) 

G Minor, Disabled or Student 

Grandchildren 

H Aged Widower 

 M Mother (Widow) 

 P Parent 

R Disabled Widow 

S Student 

W Aged Widow 

X Divorced Wife 

 KA Divorced disabled 

widower 

 KB Divorced father 

(widower) 

 KH Divorced aged widower 

Item Title Contents 

 KM Divorced mother (widow) 

 KR Divorced disabled widow 

 KS 37 or 74 Act nonphase-out student 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 114 of 312

 

 KW Divorced aged widow 

 LF 

Parent(father) if both parents are entitled 

under 1983 SS amendments 

 LP 

Parent(mother) if both parents are 

entitled under 1983 SS amendments or 

for either parent if only one entitled 

 LS 83 RRA amendment nonphase-out 

student 

 NS 

81 amendment continuing entitlement 

student 

 PS 81 amendment nonphase-out student 

 RA Remarried disabled widower 

 RB Remarried father (widower) 

 RH Remarried aged widower 

 RM Remarried mother (widow) 

 RR Remarried disabled widow 

 RW Remarried widow 

 TS 

37 or 74 Act continuous entitlement 

student 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 115 of 312

 

Tier 1 Data 

Items (2) through (15) are blank if no RR annuity is 

being paid or the RR annuity adjustment rejects. 

(2) Tier 1 PIA/CODE 

In employee and survivor cases, the PIA 1 based 

on the employee's earnings record upon which the 

tier 1 computation is based. Shown in dollars and 

dimes. 

Item Title Contents 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the RAIL, REJ an 

cannot be calculated 

increase PIA 1, "NO 

If the employee is a law year 83 60/30 case in 

which no tier 1 COL is payable, item (2) is blank. 

Item (2) is blank in spouse cases, except in the 

RAIL mass adjustment. 

If a PIA is shown, the type of PIA code is as 

follows: 

Code Type of PIA 

A AIME 

T TRANS 

W AMW 

S SPC MIN 

P Old Start 

R Alternative PIA 

F Frozen minimum 

d the reason code is shown in item (2) if the tier 1 

 mechanic ally. If the lag compensation does not 

CHGE" is shown. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 116 of 312

 

(3) 

 

 

 

 

Gross Tier 1/ 

CODE 

 

 

 

 

The gross tier 1 amount. For employees, the COL 

increased PIA, including DRCs rounded down to the 

nearest dollar or dime as appropriate. For spouses, 

fifty percent of the employee's COL increased PIA 

rounded down to the nearest dollar or dime as a 

appropriate. For survivors, the COL increased 

original rate, including DRCs and rounded down to 

the nearest dime. 

Codes are as follows: 

Code Situation 

A PL 94-547 applies 

B Survivor maximum case 

Item Title Contents 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D Reduced 60/30 employee or spouse not 

eligible for tier 1 COL 

E Reduced 60/30 employee eligible for tier 

1 COL 

F Reduced 60/30 spouse eligible for tier 1 

COL 

(4) 

 

 

AGE RED/CODE 

 

 

In retirement cases, the tier 1 age reduction 

amount. In survivor cases, the tier 1 after age 

reduction or RIB limitation. 

Codes are as follows: 

Code Situation 

 A 

Survivor case with entitlement before 

1978 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 117 of 312

 

 B Survivor case with entitlement after 1977 

 C 

Retirement case with reduction factor 

based on 1/180 

 D Spouse or divorced spouse with reduction 

factor based on 1/144 

 E 

Survivor with RIB limitation amount as 

first adjusted rate. 

 F 

Survivor with 82-1/2 percent of the PIA as 

first adjusted rate. 

 

 

 

 

G Employee or spouse with lawyear 83 

60/30 age reduction and tier 1 COL 

payable 

blank in law year 83 cases in which tier 

1 ot payable. 

(5) INCR 1/CODE 

In the 12/88 COL the recalculated 10/88 net tier 1 

amount for dual widows. In the AERO or RAIL 

mass adjustment, the tier 1 monthly increase 

amount payable on the tier 1 accrual effective date. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised September 12, 2022 Page 118 of 312

Item Title Contents 

The code indicates the effective date of the 

adjustment. RCM 6.8T Appendices E and F 

provide T effective date codes for the AERO and RAIL 

respectively. 

(6) DRC The number of delayed retirement credits used in 

tier 1. 

(7) % 

The DRC increase percentage. If 1/12 of one 

percent is used, 1 is shown. If 1/4 of one percent is 

used, 3 is shown. If a variable percent is used 

because the employee's DOB is after 1-1-25, 5 is 

shown. 

(8) PSP The PSP offset amount subtracted from a spouse or 

widow(er) tier 1. 

(9) SSA OFFSET 

The SSA offset amount in tier 1 as determined by 

Research. The amount shown is rounded to the 

dollar. The amount in (9) may differ from the 

amount in (37). In LAF E cases, only the SS benefit 

certified by the Board is shown in (37). 

If the beneficiary is also receiving a benefit certified 

by SSA, the amount in (9) will reflect both benefits. 

(10) DUAL OFFSET 

The amount by which a spouse or widow annuitant 

is reduced because of entitlement to his/her own 

employee annuity. 

(11) INCR 2 

In the AERO and RAIL, the tier 1 monthly increase 

amount payable on the second date break, if any, in 

the accrual period. In the COLA, the tier 1 work 

deduction amount. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 119 of 312 

 

Item Title Contents 

 F Felony suspension 

 T Spouse or widow tier 1 terminated 

 D 

LY83 spouse with net tier 1 decrease due 

to SSA benefit increase 

 

 

 

 

E Deportation 

If tier 1 is zero due to reductions or because of 

nonpayment provisions "000.00" is shown. 

If no reductions are required in tier 1, the rate in (3) 

is repeated in retirement cases. In survivor cases, 

the rate in (4) is shown rounded down to the dollar. 

(13) PREV TIER 1 

The net tier 1 amount before the current adjustment 

action. If the previous net tier 1 is zero, "000.00" is 

shown. Blank in OM cases. 

(12) 

 

 

NET TIER 1/CODE 

 

 

The net tier 1 amount after DRC's and COL 

increase are included, and after all reductions 

except tax withholding are considered (maximum, 

age, public pension, own employee annuity tier 1, 

SS benefit, (worker's comp). 

The code is as follows: 

Code Situation 

A Alien suspension 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 120 of 312

 

(14) WC/PDB 

The worker's compensation and/or public disability 

benefit offset amount. In the RAIL, the item shows 

the tier 1 monthly increase amount, payable on the 

third date break, if any, in the accrual period. In the 

AERO, the new tier I work deduction amount. 

(15) TOTAL ACCRUAL 

In the 12/88 COL the total accrual amount 

computed for dual widows. In the AERO or RAIL 

mass adjustment, the total tier 1 accrual amount. If 

the accrual is a reject "REJ" is shown. 

Tier II Data 

Items (16) through (31) are blank if no RR annuity is 

being paid, the annuitant is not entitled to tier 2 or 

the record rejects in the adjustment operation. 

(16) 

 

 

COMP 1/CODE 

 

 

The amount shown is indicated by the code as 

follows: 

Code Amount Represents 

A Employee was initially awarded before 

the 1981 amendments. Component 1 

after RRA max reduction, age reduction, 

COL increase and 12/83 and 12/84 

takebacks is shown. If the employee has 

Item Title Contents 

 only a component 1 in tier 2 and the 

$10.00 takeback minimum guaranty 

applies, the component 1 before the 

guaranty is shown. 

 

B Employee was initially awarded under the 

1981 or 1983 amendments. Tier 2 after 

RRA max reduction, age reduction, COL 

increase and 12/83 and 12/84 takebacks 

is shown. If the $10.00 takeback minimum 

guaranty applies, the net tier 2 before the 

guaranty is shown. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 121 of 312

 

 

C Spouse base rate is 50% of the 

employee's tier 2. (SP awarded before the 

1981 Amendments.) The amount shown 

is the tier 2 after restoration of the tier 1 

dual offset after COL increase, age 

reduction, RRA max reduction and 12/83 

and 12/84 takebacks but before the 

$10.00 takeback minimum guaranty. 

D 

Spouse base rate is 45% of the 

employee's tier 2 (spouse awarded under 

1981 or 1983 Amendments). The amount 

shown is after restoration of the tier 1 

dual offset, after COL increase and after 

reduction for RRA max and 12/83 and 

12/84 takebacks but before the $10.00 

takeback minimum guaranty. 

If the spouse ABD is before 1-1-84, the 

amount shown is after age reduction. If 

the spouse ABD is 1-1-84 or later, the 

amount shown is before reduction for age. 

 E 30% of the survivor 5/82 or OBD original 

or reduced for maximum rate reduced for 

age, increased for additional COL 

increases and reduced for 12/83 and 

12/84 takebacks but before $10.00 

takeback minimum guaranty. 

Item Title Contents 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 122 of 312 

 

 

F Applicable percentage of the employee's 

tier 2 on the survivor's OBD reduced for 

age, increased for COL and reduced for 

12/83 and 12/84 takebacks but before the 

$10.00 takeback minimum guaranty. 

If tier 2 is reduced to zero, (16) should be 

blank. 

(17) SURV EQL AMT The equalized amount added to a survivor tier 2. 

(18) LAG BAS ANN 

The new tier 2 basic annuity computed in the RAIL 

mass adjustment. 

(19) INCR 1/CODE 

The tier 2 monthly increase amount payable on the 

tier 2 accrual effective date in the RAIL. The code 

indicates the adjustment effective date. RCM 6.8T 

T Appendix F provides the effective date 

codes. 

(20) COMP 2 

If the employee was initially awarded under the 

1974 Act, component 2 after reduction for RRA 

max, age and 12/83 and 12/84 takebacks is shown. 

Item (20) is blank if the employee is a 1937 Act 

case, a 1981 or 1983 amendment case or a 1974 

Act case with only one component payable in tier 2. 

Item (20) is blank in spouse and survivor cases. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 123 of 312

 

(21) SURV RST AMT 

If the annuitant is a widow(er), the amount shown is 

the amount to be restored in tier 2 if the widow(er)'s 

own employee annuity tier 1 was deducted from the 

widow(er)'s tier 1. 

(22) AGE RED 

The tier 2 age reduction amount. In 1974 employee 

cases in which tier 2 is composed of three 

components, Item (22) is the sum of prorated age 

reduction amounts for each of the components. The 

age reduction amount is already subtracted from the 

tier 2 amounts shown in (16), (20) and (24), except 

in spouse cases with an ABD of 1-1-84 or later. 

Item Title Contents 

(23) INCR 2 

In the RAIL, the tier 2 monthly increase amount 

payable on the second date break, if any, in the tier 

2 accrual period. 

(24) COMP 3 

If the employee was initially awarded under the 

1974 Act, component 3 after COL increase and after 

reduction for RRA max, age and 12/83 and 12/84 

takebacks is shown. Item (24) is blank if the 

employee is a 1937 Act case, a 1981 or 1983 

Amendment case, or a 1974 Act case in which only 

one component is payable in tier 2. Item (24) is 

blank in spouse and survivor cases. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 124 of 312

 

(25) SP MIN GUAR 

The amount added to the survivor tier 2 for the 

spouse minimum guaranty. In the RAIL the RRA 

maximum reduction amount subtracted from the 

spouse tier 2. 

(26) AMC W/LAG 

The new tier 2 AMC computed in the RAIL mass 

adjustment. 

(27) UNTITLED 

In the COLA, the new tier 2 work deduction amount. 

In the AERO, the tier 2 work deduction amount. In 

the RAIL, the tier 2 monthly increase amount 

payable on the third date break, if any, in the tier 2 

accrual period. 

(28) NET TIER 2 

In employee and spouse cases, the net tier 2 

amount payable after COL increase and after 

reduction for RRA max, age and 12/83 and 12/84 

takebacks and after application of the $10.00 

takeback minimum guaranty. Item (28) is the sum of 

items (16), (20) and (24), or $10.00 if the takeback 

guaranty applies. 

If the spouse ABD is 1-1-84 or later, item (28) 

equals item (16) minus item (22). 

In survivor cases, the net tier 2 amount payable 

after COL increases and after reduction for age and 

12/83 and 12/84 takebacks and after the application 

of the $10.00 takeback minimum guaranty, plus any 

restored amount, equalized amount or spouse 

minimum guaranty amount. 

Item Title Contents 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 125 of 312

 

Item (28) is the sum of (16), or $10.00 if the 

takeback minimum guaranty applies, and items (17), 

(21) and (25). 

If net tier 2 is zero, 0000.00 is shown. 

(29) PREV TIER 2 

The net tier 2 amount before the current adjustment 

action. If the previous net tier 2 is zero, "000.00" is 

shown. Blank in O/M cases. 

(30) SM W/LAG 

The new total railroad service months computed in 

the RAIL mass adjustment. The number includes 

any military service months used as railroad 

service. 

(31) TOTAL ACCRUAL 

The total tier 2 accrual paid in the RAIL mass 

adjustment. If the accrual rejects, REJ and the code 

are shown. If the spouse tier 2 decreases because 

of the RRA maximum reduction, the tier 2 

overpayment amount is shown. In the SALSA, the 

payment amount or the reject code is shown. 

 VDB Data Items (32) through (34) are blank if no RR annuity is 

being paid, the annuitant is not entitled to a vested 

dual benefit, or the record rejects in the adjustment 

operation. 

(32) NET VDB 

The net vested dual benefit after age reduction and 

any cutback. If a survivor VDB was computed as 

zero, "000.00" is shown. 

(33) AGE RED 

The VDB age reduction amount in retirement cases. 

(34) C/B The VDB cutback amount if a funding restriction is 

in force. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 126 of 312

 

(35) UNTITLED 

In the COLA and the AERO, the VDB work 

deduction amount. In the RAIL, the amount of 

employee accrual used to recover the spouse 

overpayment caused by the RRA maximum 

reduction. 

Item Title Contents 

 SS Ben Data 

In the COLA, these items are used for SS benefit 

information. Data is shown if the person is entitled to 

an SS benefit even if the RR annuity is a reject. 

In the RAIL, these items are used to show RR annuity 

work deduction information. 

(36) SSA PIA 

In the COLA, the PIA upon which the SS benefit is 

based. If the person receives dual benefits, the PIA 

on the person's own account number ("A" benefit) is 

shown. 

In the RAIL, the tier I work deduction amount. 

(37) SSA AMOUNT 

In the COLA, the amount of the SS benefit after 

dollar rounding, but before SMI premium deduction. 

In cases where the annuitant is receiving more than 

one SSA benefit, it is possible that RRB is paying 

one of the benefits and SSA the other. In such 

cases, the amount shown is what RRB is paying. 

The offset amount shown in the tier 1 data will 

reflect all the SS benefits. If the SS benefit rejects, 

item (37) is left blank. 

In the RAIL, the tier 2 work deduction amount. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 127 of 312

 

(38) 

In the COLA, if the person receives SS benefits, "BIC" is shown followed 

by the benefit suffix (the alpha character indicating the type of benefit - A, 

B, C, D, etc.). 

In the RAIL, the VDB work deduction amount. 

(39) UNTITLED 

If the person receives an SSA benefit, "LAF" is 

shown followed by E if RRB pays the benefit or C if 

SSA pays the benefit. If the SS benefit is paid by 

the Board but the benefit rejects in the SS COLA 

"REJ" shows. In the RAIL, the total net accrual paid. 

For employees the amount is the sum of items 15 

and 31 minus item 35. In spouse cases, the amount 

is the sum of items 15 and 31 plus item 35. 

Item Title Contents 

(40) RECUR REG TAX 

The tax withholding amount subtracted from the 

recurring regular annuity rate. If there is no regular 

annuity tax, "000.00" is shown. 

(41) RECUR SUPP TAX 

The tax withholding amount subtracted from the 

recurring supplemental annuity rate. If there is no 

supp tax, "000.00" is shown. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 128 of 312

 

(42) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SSEB PIA/CODE 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For employee records the adjusted SSEB PIA. The 

code indicates the type of SSEB PIA: 

Code PIA Type 

A AIME 

T TRANS 

W AMW 

S SPC MIN 

P Old Start 

F Frozen Min. 

Blank in spouse and survivor cases. 

(43) 

ACCRL TAX 

RECUR RATE 

DATA 

Tax amount, if any, withheld from a total mass 

adjustment accrual. 

(44) OLD RATE 

BEFORE SMI The pre-adjustment regular RR annuity rate before 

SMIB and tax withholding but after actuarial 

adjustment, partial withholding, temporary work 

deductions or legal process deduction. 

Item (44) is blank if the RR is a reject or RRB is 

paying an SS benefit only. 

(45) NEW RATE

BEFORE SMI The adjusted regular RR annuity rate before SMIB 

and tax withholding but after actuarial adjustment, 

partial withholding, temporary work deductions or 

legal process deduction. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 129 of 312

 

Item Title Contents 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If the RR annuity is a reject, item (45) will show 

"REJ" with one of the following codes shown to 

identify the type of reject: 

Code Type of Benefit 

A BDP reject 

B Benefit payment reject 

C Due Process code in benefit payment 

record 

D Case in partial rate status 

E Interim widow 

F No adjusted record received by CHICO 

from Research. 

Item (45) is blank if we are paying an SS benefit but 

no RR annuity. 

(46) NEW RATE AFTER 

SMI 

The new regular RR annuity rate after actuarial 

adjustment, partial withholding, temporary work 

deductions, legal process deduction and tax 

withholding. If enrolled for SMI, the rate after the 

SMI premium deduction is shown. 

This rate does not include the Supp annuity if one 

is payable or the SS benefit if RRB is paying it. 

This column is blank if the regular annuity rejects 

unless a deduction is needed for the SMI premium 

or tax withholding. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 130 of 312

 

(47) CHECK 

RR/SS/SUPP The total monthly payment amount. 

The amount is the total of the RR annuity (after 

actuarial adjustment, partial withholding, temporary 

work deductions, legal process deduction tax 

withholding and SMIB), the Supp annuity (after tax 

withholding) and the SS benefit (if RRB is paying 

the SS benefit). 

Item Title Contents 

The amount of the check is shown regardless of 

whether the annuity rate was or was not adjusted. 

However, if a check was not issued because the 

claim is suspended for other than cause code 98 or 

was terminated, item (47) will be blank. 

An asterisk (*) immediately follows the amount if a 

code 98 suspension is in effect. 

(48) SMIB PREM/CODE The SMIB premium amount (table or variable) 

being subtracted from the monthly payment. An F is 

shown in the code box if the premium is being 

deducted from the SS benefit instead of the RR 

annuity. 

(49) 

 

 

 

SMIB CODE 

 

 

 

The five position code on CHICO which describes 

the SMIB status. 

Rate Table Indicator (S, P, or C) 

Variable Rate Indicator (V or N) 

Penalty Percentage Indicator (000 through 220) 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 131 of 312

 

(50) 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER 

DED/CODE 

 

 

 

 

 

The rate deductions if any, subtracted from the 

gross annuity rate. 

The code indicates the type of deductions. 

Code Situation 

A Actuarial adjustment 

P Partial withholding 

W Retirement temporary work deductions 

G Legal process deduction 

 

 

 

 

B Actuarial adjustment and partial 

withholding 

C Actuarial adjustment and temporary work 

deductions 

Item Title Contents 

 D 

Partial withholding and temporary work 

deductions 

 E Actuarial adjustment, partial withholding 

and temporary work deductions 

 F Actuarial adjustment, and legal process 

deduction 

 J Partial withholding and legal process 

deduction 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 132 of 312

 

 K 

Temporary work deduction and legal 

process deduction 

 M 

Actuarial adjustment, partial withholding 

and legal process deduction 

 Q Actuarial adjustment, temporary work 

deduction and legal process deduction 

 R 

Partial withholding, temporary work 

deduction and legal process deduction 

 S Actuarial adjustment, partial withholding, 

temporary work deduction and legal 

process deduction 

(51) SUP BEFORE TAX 

The monthly supplemental annuity rate before tax 

withholding. 

(52) RJ/RV 

The reject and special handling review codes. "SA" is 

shown for cases with LAF E SSA benefits which are 

due an AERO increase. 

An asterisk (*) is shown if the record rejected or was 

earmarked for special handling and review in a 

previous mechanical COL operation. The asterisk will 

show even if the case does not reject or is not 

earmarked for review in the current COL operation. 

II. The following described format was used for all mass adjustments December 1, 

1985 through November 1988. All items described below were used on cost-ofliving 

microfilms. Selected items were used on the microfilms for other mass adjustments. 

 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

(A) CLAIM NUMBER Beneficiary symbol, prefix, and claim number are 

shown. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 133 of 312

 

(B) PC Payee Code 

(C) 

 

SYM 

 

Blank for employee and the spouse records. For 

divorced spouse and survivor records the symbol is 

derived as follows: 

Symbol Type of beneficiary 

 A Disabled Widower 

 B Father (Widower) 

 C Minor child 

 D Disabled child 

 F Father (parent) 

 G Minor, Disabled or Student Grandchild 

 H Aged Widower 

 M Mother (Widow) 

 P Parent 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 134 of 312 

 

R Disabled Widow 

S Student 

W Aged Widow 

X Divorced Wife 

 KA Divorced disabled widower 

 KB Divorced father (widower) 

 KH Divorced aged widower 

 KM Divorced mother (widow) 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

 

 

 

 

KR 

KS 

Divorced disabled widow 

37 or 74 Act nonphase-out student 

 KW Divorced aged widow 

 LF 

Parent(father) if both parents are entitled 

under 1983 SS amendments 

 LP Parent(mother) if both parents are entitled 

under 1983 SS amendments or for either 

parent if only one entitled 

 LS 83 RRA amendment nonphase-out 

student 

 NS 

81 amendment continuing entitlement 

student 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 135 of 312

 

 PS 81 amendment nonphase-out student 

 RA Remarried disabled widower 

 RB Remarried father (widower) 

 RH Remarried aged widower 

 RM Remarried mother (widow) 

 RR Remarried disabled widow 

 RW Remarried widow 

 TS 

37 or 74 Act continuous entitlement 

student 

 Tier 1 Items (D) thro ugh (J) are blank if: 

 • the RR annuity is a reject, or 

 • RRB is paying on ly an SS benefit 

(D) TIER 1 PIA 

In employee and survivor cases, the PIA 1 based 

on the employee's earnings record upon which the 

tier 1 computation is based. Shown in dollars and 

dimes. 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 136 of 312

 

If the employee is a Law year 83 60/30 case in 

which no tier 1 COL is payable, item (D) is blank. 

Item (D) is blank in spouse cases. 

(E) 

 

GROSS TIER 1 

CODE 

 

The gross tier 1 amount is shown with an 

explanatory code. 

• If the annuitant is an employee, the COL 

increased PIA, including DRC's, rounded 

down to the nearest dollar. 

• If the annuitant is a spouse or divorced 

spouse, 50% of the employee's COL 

increased PIA rounded down to the nearest 

dollar. 

• If the annuitant is a survivor, the COL 

increased original rate. The amount shown 

will include DRC's and is rounded to the 

nearest dime. 

Code Amount Represents 

 A PL 94-547 rate for an employee or spouse, 

rounded down to the nearest dollar. 

 B 

Survivor maximum case. The PIA upon 

which the reduced for maximum rates are 

based. The amount shown will include 

DRC's and is rounded to the nearest dime. 

 D Reduced 60/30 employee or spouse not 

eligible for tier 1 COL (annuitant under age 

62, or age 62 but tier 1 recalculation has 

not been performed prior to COL mass 

adjustment). No amount will show in (E). 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 137 of 312

 

 E Reduced 60/30 employee eligible for tier 1 

COL. Gross tier 1 equals PIA 1 (not 

rounded to the dollar.) 

 F Reduced 60/30 spouse eligible for tier 1 

COL. Gross tier 1 equals 50% of 

employee's PIA 1 rounded to the dime. 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

(F) DRC 

The number of increment months, if any, used to 

compute the employee's or survivor's delayed 

retirement credit. 

 DRC % A "1" is shown if the DRC's used are based on 1/12 

of one percent for each month. A "3" is shown if 

DRC's used are based on 1/4 of one percent for 

each month. 

(G) 

 

AGE REDUCTION 

 

In retirement cases, the age reduction amount is it 

applies in tier 1. In survivor cases, the first adjusted 

rate, i.e., the rate after age reduction or RIB 

limitation. The codes are as follows: 

Code Meaning 

 A Percentage increase method used 

(entitlement before 1978). Applies to 

survivor cases only. 

 B Initial reduction months based on a factor 

of 19/40 if aged widow(er) or 19/40 and 

43/240 if disabled widow(er). Applies to 

survivor cases only. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 138 of 312

 

 C Initial reduction months based on factor of 

1/180. Applies to retirement cases only. 

 D Initial reduction months based on a factor 

of 1/144. Applies to spouses only. 

 E The first adjusted rate is the RIB limitation 

amount. Applies only to widows. 

 F 

The first adjusted rate is 82 1/2% of the 

PIA. Applies only to widows. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 139 of 312 

 

 G Law year 83 reduced 60/30 tier 1 age 

reduction amount. Shown only if tier 1 COL is 

payable. 

In Law year 83 reduced 60/30 cases in which no 

tier 1 COL is payable, item (G) is blank. 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

(H) SSA OFFSET 

The SSA, offset amount in tier 1 as determined by 

Research. This amount is rounded to the dollar. 

The amount in (H) may differ from the amount in 

(V). The LAF E cases, only the SS benefit certified 

by the Board is shown in (V). If the beneficiary is 

also receiving in (H) will reflect both benefits. 

In code 34 and code 37 special handling cases, the

amount shown in (H) is an assumed amount. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 140 of 312

 

(I) 

 

 

 

 

NET TIER 1 

 

 

 

 

The net tier 1 amount shown in this item is the 

amount after DRC's and COL increase are 

included, and after all reductions except tax 

withholding are considered (maximum, age, public 

pension, own employee annuity tier 1, SS benefit, 

worker's comp). 

If the tier 1 is reduced for amounts other than age 

and SS benefits, the code indicates the type of 

additional reductions: 

Code Meaning 

A Gross tier 1 is reduced by the annuitant's 

own employee annuity tier 1 amount. 

B Gross tier 1 is reduced by the annuitant's 

public pension amount. 

C Gross tier 1 is reduced by both the 

annuitant's public pension and his/her own 

employee annuity tier 1 amount. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 141 of 312 

 

D Gross tier 1 is reduced by the annuitant's worker's comp 

amount. 

E Gross tier 1 is reduced by the annuitant's 

worker's comp and public pension amounts. 

F Gross tier 1 is reduced by both the 

annuitant's worker's comp and own employee 

annuity tier 1 amounts. 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

G Gross tier 1 is reduced by the annuitant's 

worker's comp, public pension and own 

employee annuity tier 1 amounts. 

H Felony case. Tier 1 not payable. 

I Law year 83 60/30 spouse not entitled to a 

tier 1 COL and net tier 1 decreases due to 

the increase in the spouse's SSA benefit 

and/or the increase in the spouse's own 

employee annuity tier 1 amount. 

If tier 1 is wiped out due to reductions or 

nonpayment due to felony conviction, "000.00" is 

shown. 

If no reductions are required in tier 1, the (E) rate is 

repeated in retirement cases. In survivor cases, the 

(G) rate is shown rounded down to the dollar. 

In Law year 83 reduced 60/30 cases which no tier 1 

COL is payable, item (I) is the only tier 1 item with 

an entry. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 142 of 312

 

(J) 

 

PREV TIER 1 

 

The amount shown in this item is the net tier 1 

amount before the current COL adjustment. Blank 

in O/M cases. 

Tier 2 Items (K) through (P) are blank if: 

• the RR annuity is a reject, or 

• only an SS benefit is being paid, or 

• the annuitant is not eligible for a tier 2 

(K) 

 

 

COMP 1 

 

 

The amount shown is indicated by the code as 

follows. If the takeback reduces tier 2 to zero, (K) is 

blank. 

Code Amount Represents 

A Employee was initially awarded before the 

1981 amendments. Component 1 after 

RRA max reduction, age reduction, COL 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

increase and 12/83 and 12/84 takebacks is

shown. If the employee has only a 

component 1 in tier 2 and the $10.00 

takeback minimum guaranty applies, the 

component 1 before the guaranty is shown. 

 B Employee was initially awarded under the 

1981 amendments. Tier 2 after RRA max 

reduction, age reduction, COL increase and 

12/83 and 12/84 takebacks is shown. If the 

$10.00 takeback minimum guaranty applies, 

the net tier 2 before the guaranty is shown. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 143 of 312

 

 C Spouse base rate is 50% of employee's tier 

2. The amount shown is the tier 2 after 

restoration of own EE annuity tier 1, after 

COL increase and after reduction for the 

RRA max and 12/83 and 12/84 takebacks 

but before the $10.00 takeback minimum 

guaranty. 

 D Spouse base rate is 45% of employee's tier 

2. The amount shown is after restoration for 

own EE annuity tier 1 after COL increase 

and after reduction for RRA max and 12/83 

and 12/84 takebacks but before the $10.00 

takeback minimum guaranty. 

If the spouse ABD is before 1-1-84, the 

amount shown is after age reduction. If the 

spouse ABD is 1-1-84 or later, the amount 

shown is before reduction for age. 

 

E 30% of the survivor 5/82 or OBD original or 

reduced for maximum rate reduced for age, 

increased for additional COL increases and 

reduced for 12/83 and 12/84 takebacks but 

before the $10.00 takeback minimum 

guaranty. 

 

F Applicable percentage of the employee's 

tier 2 on the survivor's OBD reduced for age, 

increased for COL and reduced for 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

12/83 and 12/84 takebacks but before the 

$10.00 takeback minimum guaranty. 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 144 of 312

 

(L) COMP 2 

If the employee was initially awarded under the 

1974 Act, component 2 after reduction for RRA max, 

age and 12/83 and 12/84 takebacks is shown. 

Item (L) is blank if the employee is a 1937 Act case, 

a 1981 Amendment case or a 1974 Act case with 

only one component payable in tier 2. 

Item (L) is blank in spouse cases. 

If the annuitant is a widow(er), the amount shown is 

the amount to be restored in tier 2 if the widow(er)'s 

own employee annuity tier 1 was deducted from the 

widow(er)'s tier 1. 

(M) COMP 3 

If the employee was initially awarded under the 

1974 Act, component 3 after COL increase and after 

reduction for RRA max, age and 12/83 and 12/84 

takebacks is shown. 

Item (M) is blank if the employee is a 1937 Act case, 

a 1981 Amendment case, or a 1974 Act case in 

which only one component is payable in tier 2. Item 

(M) is blank in spouse cases. 

In survivor cases, the amount to be added to the 

widow(er)'s tier 2 for the spouse minimum guaranty 

or the amount to be added to a survivor's tier 2 for

1/75 conversion equalization is shown. 

(N) AGE REDUCTION 

The total tier 2 reduction amount. 

In 1974 employee cases in which tier 2 is composed 

of three components, Item (N) is the sum of the 

prorated age reduction amounts for each of the 

components. 

The age reduction amount shown is already 

subtracted from the tier 2 amounts shown in (K), 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 145 of 312

 

(L) and (M), except in spouse cases with an ABD of 

1-1-84 or later. 

(O) NET TIER 2 In employee and spouse cases, the net tier 2 

amount payable after COL increase and after 

reduction for RRA max, age and 12/83 and 12/84 

takebacks and after application of the $10.00 

takeback minimum guaranty. Item (O) is the sum of 

items (K), (L) and (M), or $10.00 if the takeback 

guaranty applies. 

If the spouse ABD is 1-1-84 or later, item (O) equals 

item (K) minus item (N). 

In survivor cases, the net tier 2 amount payable 

after COL increases and after reduction for age and 

12/83 and 12/84 takebacks and after the application 

of the $10.00 takeback minimum guaranty, plus any 

restored amount or spouse minimum guaranty 

amount. Item (O) is the sum of (K), or $10.00 if the 

takeback minimum guaranty applies, and items (L) 

and (M). 

(P) PREV TIER 2 

The tier 2 amount to be entered in this item is the 

net amount before the current COL adjustment. 

Blank in O/M cases. 

 Windfall Items (Q) through (R) are blank if: 

• the RR annuity is a reject, or 

• only an SS benefit is being paid, or 

• the annuitant is not entitled to a windfall 

(Q) NET WINDFALL 

The amount of the windfall after age reduction. 

The survivor cases if a windfall was calculated but 

it resulted in a zero rate, "000.00" is shown. 

(R) AGE REDUCTION The age reduction amount applied to the windfall. 

Blank in survivor cases. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 146 of 312

 

(S) UNTITLED The tier 1 non-SSEB taxable amount. This amount is 

included in the annuity amount subject to 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

withholding upon which the tax withholding amount 

is calculated. 

(T) TAX W/H 

Total taxes withheld from the recurring regular RR 

and Supp annuity monthly payment. 

If no taxes are withheld, "000.00" is shown. 

 SS Benefit SS benefit data is shown even if the RR annuity is 

a reject. 

(U) SSA PIA 

The COL increased PIA in dollars and dimes upon 

which the SS benefit is based. For various 

reasons, the PIA is not always updated for the COL 

even though the benefit amount is increased. In 

this case the PIA will be left to avoid confusion. 

(V) SSA AMOUNT 

The amount of the SS benefit after dollar rounding, 

but before SMI premium deduction. This amount is 

shown in pure LAF E SS cases as well as cases 

involving RR payments and LAF E or LAF C SS 

benefits. 

In cases where the annuitant is receiving a 

combined benefit as SSA, it is possible that RRB is 

paying one of the benefits and SSA and other. 

In such cases, the amount shown is what RRB is 

paying. The offset amount shown in the tier 1 data 

will reflect all the SS benefits. 

In the SS benefit rejects, item (V) is left blank. 

(W) Suffix 

The suffix that describes the type of SS benefit, 

e.g., A, B, H, C, D, etc. If RRB is paying SS 

benefits, the suffix from the CHICO record is 

shown. Otherwise the suffix from the MBR record is 

shown. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 147 of 312

 

(X) 

 

 

Paid 

 

 

The codes described below indicate which agency 

is paying the SS benefit: 

Code Description 

C LAF C case - SSA is paying the benefit 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 

 

 

 

 

E LAF E case - RRB is paying the benefit 

R LAF E case - increase rejected 

 Monthly Rate Data These columns show the old and new rates, show 

a reject or are left blank under certain 

circumstances. 

(Y) OLD RATE 

BEFORE SMI The pre-adjustment regular RR annuity rate before 

tax withholding but after actuarial adjustment or 

partial withholding. 

Item (Y) is blank if the RR is a reject or RRB is 

paying an SS benefit only. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 148 of 312

 

(Z) 

 

 

NEW RATE 

BEFORE SMI 

 

 

The adjusted regular RR annuity rate before tax 

withholding but after actuarial adjustment or partial 

withholding. 

If the OM formula is paid, the rate shown has no 

relationship to any tier or windfall amount shown in 

previous items. Item (Z) is blank if we are paying 

an SS benefit but no RR annuity. 

If the RR annuity is a reject, item (Z) will show 

"REJ". One of the following codes is shown to 

identify the type of reject: 

Code Type of Reject 

A BDP (Research) reject 

 B Benefit payment (Checkwriting) reject 

 C 

Due Process code in benefit payment 

record 

 D Case in partial rate status 

 E Interim Widow 

 F 

No adjusted record received by CHICO 

from Research. 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 149 of 312

 

(a) 

 

 

 

 

 

NEW RATE AFTER 

SMI 

 

 

 

 

 

The regular RR annuity rate after actuarial 

adjustment, partial withholding and tax withholding. 

If enrolled for SMI, the rate after the SMI premium 

deduction is shown. 

This rate does not include the Supp annuity if one 

payable or the SS benefit if RRB is paying it. 

This column is blank if regular annuity rejects unless 

a deduction is needed for the SMI premium. 

The following codes are used to describe any 

special provisions used to make the annuity 

adjustment: 

Code Special Provision 

A Actuarial adjustment 

B Partial withholding 

C Actuarial adjustment and partial 

withholding 

D Elected tax withholding 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 150 of 312

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

E Elected tax withholding and actuarial 

adjustment 

F Elected tax withholding, actuarial 

adjustment and partial withholding 

G Elected tax withholding, actuarial 

adjustment and partial withholding 

H Mandatory tax withholding 

I Mandatory tax withholding and actuarial 

adjustment 

J Mandatory tax withholding and partial 

withholding 

K Mandatory tax withholding, actuarial 

adjustment and partial withholding 

Item Title Contents and Instructions 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 151 of 312

 

(b) ADJUSTMENT 

CHECK AMOUNT 

The amount of the adjustment check for each payee. 

The amount is the total of the RR annuity (after 

actuarial adjustment and/or partial withholding), the 

Supp annuity and the SS benefit if RRB is paying the 

SS benefit minus any reduction for tax withholding 

and/or SMI. 

The amount of the check is shown regardless of 

whether the annuity rate was or was not adjusted. 

However, if a check was not issued because the 

claim is suspended for other than cause code 98 or 

was terminated, item (b) will be blank. 

An asterisk (*) immediately follows the amount if a 

code 98 suspension is in effect. 

A code D indicates the check is going to a financial 

institution. 

(c) SUPP ANN 

The monthly supplemental annuity rate payable after 

RRA max reduction and before tax withholding. 

(d) REJ/REV 

This area will show the reject and special handling 

review codes. A list of codes is provided on RCM 6.8 

Appendix B. 

An asterisk (*) is shown if the record rejected or was 

earmarked for special handling and review in a 

previous mechanical COL operation. The asterisk will 

show even if the case does not reject or is not 

earmarked for review in the current COL operation. 

III. The following described format was used for all mechanical adjustments February 

1, 1982 through November 30, 1985. An explanation of mircofilm before February 

1982 is available in binder "RCM 6.8 PRE-FEB 1982 MASS ADJ" located on your 

supervisor's desk. 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 152 of 312

 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

 • DATE 

Date the mircofilm tape record is 

prepared. 

All 

 • TITLE Name of the adjustment. All 

(A) 

CLAIM 

NUMBER 

Beneficiary symbol, prefix and claim number. 

Includes cases where we are paying an SS benefit 

but no RR annuity. All 

(B) PC 

Payee code. If there is more than one survivor 

beneficiary in the payee code (combined check 

case), the payee code is shown only on the line 

containing the combined check rate. All 

(C) 

 

 

SYM 

 

 

Blank for employee and spouse annuitants. All 

The divorced wife and survivor beneficiary symbol 

is based on the following: 

Symbol Type of Beneficiary 

A Disabled Widower 

 B Father (Widower) 

 

 

 

 

C Minor Child 

 D Disabled Child 

 G Minor, Disabled, or Student Grandchild 

 H Aged Widower 

 M Mother (Widow) 

 P Parent 

 R Disabled Widow 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 153 of 312

 

 S Student 

 W Aged Widow 

 X Divorced Wife 

COLUMN TITLE CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS 

ADJUSTMENT 

KA Divorced disabled widower 

 KB Divorced father (widower) 

 KH Divorced aged widower 

 KM Divorced mother (widow) 

 KR Divorced disabled widow 

 KS 37 or 74 Act nonphase-out student 

 

 

 

 

KW Divorced aged widow 

 

LF Parent(father) if both parents are entitled 

under 1983 SS amendments 

 LP Parent(mother) if both parents are 

entitled under 1983 SS amendments or 

for either parent if only one entitled 

 

LS 83 RRA amendment nonphase-out 

student 

 

NS 81 amendment continuing entitlement 

student 

 PS 81 amendment nonphase-out student 

 RA Remarried disabled widower 

 RB Remarried father (widower) 

 RH Remarried aged widower 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 154 of 312 

 

 RM Remarried mother (widow) 

 RR Remarried disabled widow 

 RW Remarried widow 

 TS 37 or 74 Act continuous entitlement 

student 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TIER 1 

 

 

 

 

If there is more than one beneficiary in a payee 

code (combined check case), the payee code lines 

are blank. 

Columns (D), (E), (F), (G), and All, except 2- 

(H) are blank if: 16-82 WF 

Accrual 

Payment 

• The RR annuity is a reject, or 

• We are paying only an SS benefit, or 

• The annuity is adjusted only for the SMI 

premium increase, or 

• The spouse adjustment is based on the 

"TackOn" method. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 155 of 312

 

(D) 

 

 

 

 

GROSS TIER I 

CODE 

 

 

 

 

The term "Gross TIER 1" is defined below. 

Code Amount Represents 

• If the annuitant is an employee the COL 

increased PIA (including DRC's if applicable) 

rounded down to the nearest dollar. 

• The SS Act wife's/husband's/divorced 

wife's benefit based on the employee 

annuitant's cost-of-living increased PIA. 

(50% of the PIA rounded down to the 

nearest dollar.) 

• The SS Act survivor's cost-of-living increased 

original rate. The amount shown will include 

DRC amounts (if applicable as indicated in 

column (F), DRC). 

COLUMN TITLE CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS 

ADJUSTMENT 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 156 of 312

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A The PL-94-547 rate for an employee or 

spouse. This rate is the 12-1974 annuity 

rate based on the pass-thru PIA and 

increased annually by the cost-of-living 

increase percentage applied to SS Act 

benefits. 

B In a survivor maximum case, the PIA upon 

which the reduced for maximum rates are 

based. The amount shown will include 

DRC amounts (if applicable as indicated in 

column (F), DRC). 

C The new rate was determined by the "tack 

on" method because the sum of the old rate 

tier amounts plus the windfall minus 

deductions does not total within $1.00 of 

the old annuity rate. This will apply only for 

spouse cases, only the "new rate", "old 

rate" SS benefit date, "new rate after SMI" 

and the adjustment check will be shown. 

D Reduced 60/30 employee or spouse under 

age 62 and not eligible for tier 1 COL. 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 157 of 312

 

(E) 

 

 

 

 

NET TIER 1 

 

 

 

 

The net tier 1 amount is the 

amount after DRC's are 

included, and after all reductions 

are considered (maximum, age, 

public pension, employee 

annuity net tier 1, SS The 

amount shown in column (D) is 

always reduced by the amount 

of the age reduction (in 

retirement cases, the amount of 

age reduction is shown in 

column (G)), and for the SS 

benefit amount shown in column 

(V). The SS amount shown in 

column (V) is after dollar 

rounding but before SMI 

deduction. (See code (D) for 

exception.) If a public pension 

or employee annuity net tier 1 

are reducing the gross tier 1 

amount, the code will indicate 

the reduction. If the tier 1 is 

wiped out, "000.00" is shown. If 

no adjustment is required, the 

(D) rate is repeated. The codes 

and amounts represented are as 

follows: 

Code Amount Represents 

A The gross tier 1 amount is 

annuitant's own employee 

amount. 

B The gross tier 1 amount is 

annuitant's public pension 

C The gross tier 1 amount is 

both the annuitant's public 

amount and their employe 

amount. 

All, except 

21682 WF 

Accrual 

Payment 

benefit). 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised September 12, 2022 Page 158 of 312

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

 

 

 

 

D The SS benefit amount used to reduce tier 

1 is different than the SS benefit RRB is 

paying (column V). The column (V) amount 

is from the benefit payment master. 

The SS amount deducted in tier 1 is determined by 

Research. If the amounts differ by a $1.00 

(tolerance) or more and the RR rate results in an 

increase, this code will appear. 

(F) DRC 

The number of increment 

months, if any, used to compute 

the employee's delayed 

retirement credit. 2-16-82 WF 

All, except 

Accrual 

Payment 

 DRC % A "1" is shown if the DRC's used 

are based on 1/12 of one 

percent for each month (1 

percent a year). A "3" is shown if 

DRC's used are based on 1/4 of 

one percent for each month (3 

percent a year). 

All, Accrual 

except2-16-82 

WF Payment 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 159 of 312 

 

In retirement cases, the age reduction amount as it 

applies in tier 1 is shown. In survivor cases, the 

first adjusted rate is shown, i.e., the rate after age 

reduction or RIB limitation. 

follows: 

Code Meaning 

method used 

(entitlement before 1978). Applies to 

survivor cases only. 

COLUMN TITLE CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS 

ADJUSTMENT 

(G) 

 

 

 

 

AGE RED 

 

 

 

 

The codes and meaning of each 

A Percentage increase 

B Initial reduction months 

used based on a factor 

All, except2-

1682 WF 

Accrual 

Payment 

code are as 

 

All, beginning 

1-1-84
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 160 of 312

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

of19/40 if aged 

widow(er) or if disabled 

widow(er). Applies to 

survivor case only. 

C Initial reduction months 

used based on a factor 

of 1/180. Applies to 

retirement case only. 

D Initial reduction months 

used based on a factor 

of 1/144. Applies to 

spouse only. 

E The first adjusted rate is 

the RIB limitation 

amount. 

 

 

 

 

F The first adjusted rate is 

82 1/2% of the PIA. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 161 of 312

 

(H) PREV TIER 1 

Net tier 1 amount before the 

current COL adjustment and 

before restoration of any M/S 

red. In O/M cases this space is 

blank. 

All beginning 

with the12-1-83 

COL 

 

 

 

 

 

TIER II 

 

 

 

 

Columns (I) through (O) are 

blank if: 

• The RR annuity is a reject, or 

• We are paying only an SS 

benefit, or 

• The annuity is adjusted only 

for the SMI premium increase, 

or 

• The spouse adjustment is 

based on the "tack on" 

method. 

 

 

 

 

 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

(I) NET TIER II 

In retirement cases, the net tier 

2 amount payable includes the 

COL, minus any applicable 

reductions in columns (M) and 

(O). For a survivor, the net tier 2 

is the amount in column (J), 

minus any applicable reduction 

in column (O), plus any 

additional amount as indicated in 

column (K) or (L). 

All, except2-

1682 WF

Accrual 

Payment 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 162 of 312

 

(J) COMPONENT 1 The amount shown is indicated by 

the code as follows: All except2-1-

82 EE LAG 

ADJ. 2-16-82 

WF Payment, 

and 4-1-82 

AERO ADJ. 

Accrual 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 163 of 312 

 

Code Amount Represents 

 

A The employee was 

initially awarded before the 1981 

Amendments. Component 1 after COL 

increase is shown. 

 

B The employee was 

initially awarded before the 1981 

Amendments. 

The column is left. 

 Effective 9-183 

C Base rate is 50% of EE's the reduction 

tier 2. The amount for M/S no 

shown is the tier 2 before longer applies 

age and M/S reduction reduced for 

the RRA Max, if applicable, and increased 

for the COL. 

 

D Base rate is 45% of EE's tier 2. The 

amount 

COLUMN TITLE CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS 

ADJUSTMENT 

 

 

 

 

shown is before age and 

M/S reduction, reduced 

for RRA Max, if 

applicable, and increased 

for the COL. 

E 30% of the survivor's 

51982 or OBD original or 

reduced for maximum 

rate increased for 

additional COL increases 

as applicable. 

F Applicable percentage of 

the employee's tier 2 on 

the survivor's OBD 

 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 164 of 312

 

increased for applicable 

COL increases. 

(K) COMPONENT 2 

If the employee was initially 

awarded before the 1981 

Amendments, component2 of tier 

2 is shown. 

If the annuitant is a spouse or 

widow(er), the amount, if any, to 

be restored in tier 2 because the 

spouse or widow's own employee 

annuity tier 1 was deducted from 

the spouse or widow tier 1. 

All except2-

1682 WF

Accrual 

Payment 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 165 of 312

 

(L) COMPONENT 3 

If the employee was initially 

awarded before the 1981 

Amendments, component 3 

increased for COL is shown. 

In the survivor cases, the amount 

to be added to a widow(er)'s tier 

2 on account of the spouse 

minimum guaranty, or the 

amount to be added to a 

survivor's tier 2 on account of 

11975 conversion equalization. 

The amount to be added if more 

than one of the above conditions 

applies. 

All except2-

1682 WF

Accrual 

Payment 

(M) RRA MAX 

Amount of deduction for the RRA 

maximum. 

All except 2-

1682 WF 

(N) TIER 2 COL T/B 

Amount of the takeback in tier 2 

due to 12-83 or 12-84 tier 1 COL 

increase. This column will be 

blank in O/M cases. 

NOTE: If the figure entered is 

followed by an asterisk "*", the 

takeback amount was computed 

based on a fictional 11-84 net tier 

1. 

All, beginning 

with the12-83 

COL 

(O) AGE RED The age reduction amount as it 

applies in tier 2. All except 2-16-

82 WF Accrual 

Payment and 

1-2-85 COL 

ADJ 

(P) PREV TIER 2 

The net tier 2 amount before 

1284 COL adjustment. This 

column will be blank in O/M 

cases. 

All, beginning 

with the 12-83 

COL 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 166 of 312

 

 WINDFALL Column (Q) through column (T) 

will be blank if, 

 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• The RR annuity is a REJECT, 

or 

• We are paying only an SS 

benefit, or 

• The annuity is adjusted only 

for the SMI premium increase, 

or 

• The spouse adjustment is 

based on the "tack on" 

method. 

In a survivor combined check 

case, the payee code line showing 

the combined RR annuity check 

rate is left blank. 

 

 

 

 

 

(Q) GROSS WF 

The amount of the windfall before 

any reductions for age and/or 

military and service, and before 

cutback. In survivor cases if a 

windfall was recalculated but it 

resulted in a zero, "000.00" will be 

in this column. If no windfall this 

space is left blank. 

All 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 167 of 312

 

(R) 

 

TOTAL T/B AMT 

 5% of the 11/83 net tier 1 amount. 

NOTE: If the figure entered is 

followed by an asterisk "*", the 

takeback amount was computed 

based on a "fictional" 11-83 net 

tier 1. A fictional figure was used 

when the SS MBR rate for 1283 

was higher than the updated 

figure for 12-83 was higher than 

the updated figure in our record. 

All, 

 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

(S) AGE RED 

The age reduction amount as it 

applies in the windfall. All 

(T) NONE(Reserve 

d) Total taxes withheld from 

recurring monthly annuity 

payments shown beginning with 

the 12-84 COL. Previously used 

to show the amount of any 

retroactive accrual. 

All, beginning 

with the12-84 

COL 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 168 of 312

 

 

 

SS BEN DATA 

 

In a survivor combined check 

case, columns (U), (V), (W), and 

(X) are blank showing the 

combined RR annuity check 

rate. The data for these columns 

is shown on the line that 

contains the data for the 

beneficiary in the combined 

check. The SS benefit data is 

shown even though the RR 

annuity is a REJECT. 

NOTE: The MBR record is not 

passed to our system during the 

February 1 check adjustment. 

Therefore, if there is no CHICO 

record, no SS benefit data will 

be shown on the first line. Refer 

to the latest cost-of- living 

microfilm if MBR data is needed. 

All, before the 

November1983 

payment. 

After11-1-83 

there should be 

only 1 

beneficiary per 

payee code. 

 

(U) PIA 

The cost-of-living increased PIA 

in dollars and dimes upon which 

the SS benefit is based. For 

various reasons the PIA is not 

always updated for the COL 

even though the benefit amount 

is increased. In this case the PIA 

will be left blank to avoid 

confusion. 

COL 

adjustment 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 169 of 312

 

(V) AMOUNT 

The amount in dollars and dimes 

of SS benefit after dollar 

rounding, but before SMI 

premium deduction. This is true 

for pure SS cases (RRB paying 

and no RR annuity) as well as 

cases involving SS and RR 

payments. In cases where the 

annuitant is receiving a combined 

benefit at SSA, it is possible that 

RRB is paying one of the benefits 

and SSA the other. 

In such cases, the amount 

shown is what RRB is paying 

(code E will appear in column 

(X)). The offset in tier 1 is the 

entire combined benefit (code D 

will appear in column (E)). If the 

SS benefit rejected (as indicated 

in column (X)), the column is left 

blank. Due to program error, if no 

Medicare is involved and the 

case is pure SS benefit case, the 

column is left blank for 1982 

COL. 

COL 

adjustment 

(W) SFX 

The suffix that describes the type 

of SS benefit, e.g., A, B, H, A, C, 

etc. If RRB is paying SS this will 

be the suffix from the CHICO 

record. Otherwise the suffix will 

come from the MBR record. 

COL 

adjustment 

(X) 

 

RR PD 

 

The codes described below 

indicate which agency is paying 

the SS benefit. 

Code Description 

 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 170 of 312

 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C LAF C case - SSA is 

paying the SS benefit 

E LAF E case - RRB is 

paying the SS benefit 

R LAF E case - increase 

rejected 

 

 

. 

 RATE BEFORE 

SMI 

These columns show the old and 

new rates, show a reject or are 

left blank under certain 

circumstances. 

 

(Y) and 

(Z) 

OLD AND NEW 

RATES 

(a) If there is only one 

beneficiary in the payee 

code, the old rate is the 

pre-adjustment annuity 

rate; the new rate is the 

adjusted annuity rate. If 

actuarial adjustment or 

partial withholding is 

involved the amount shown 

is after reduction. Rates 

are before tax withholding. 

All except 2-

1682 WF 

Accrual 

Payment 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 171 of 312 

 

 (b) If there is more than one All, before the 

survivor beneficiary in the November 

1983 payee code, the old rate payment. 

After and the new rate on the 11-1-83, there 

payee code line is the should be only 

combined annuity rate. 1 beneficiary 

Succeeding date lines per payee reflect 

the old and new code. rate for each 

beneficiary in the payee code. The old and 

new rates on the payee code line should 

equal the total of the old and new rates for 

each beneficiary. 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 172 of 312

 

 (c) The new rate for 100% 

O/M cases and 100% O/M 

Grandfather cases has no 

relationship to any tier or 

windfall amount that may 

be shown. Only the 100% 

O/M cases will get a COL 

adjustment. The old and 

new rates for the 100% 

O/M Grandfather cases, is 

the same. 

 

 (d) The old rate column is 

blank for an RR annuity 

reject and the abbreviation 

"REJ" is shown in the new 

rate column. One of the 

following codes is shown 

to identify the type of 

reject: 

 

 A DP&A Reject 

 B Benefit Payment 

Reject 

 

 C Due Process Code in 

Benefit Payment 

Record 

 

 D Interim Widow 

 (e) The old rate column and 

new rate columns are blank 

if: 

 

 

 

 

 

• 

We are paying an SS 

benefit but no RR 

annuity, or 

 

 

• The RR annuity is 

adjusted only for the 

SMI premium increase. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 173 of 312

 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

(a) NEW RATE 

AFTER SMI The new regular RR annuity rate 

after tax withholding. If enrolled 

for SMI, the rate after the SMI 

premium deduction is shown. If 

SMI premiums begin or stop in 

month of adjustment, rate shown 

reflect SMI status in month 

before adjustment. This rate 

does not include a SUP ANN if 

one is payable or the SS benefit 

if we are paying it. Tax 

withholding applied to any SUP 

ANN is not considered in this 

rate. 

All, except 216-

82 WF 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 174 of 312 

 

 All, before 

The new combined annuity rate 

November1983 if there is more than 

one After11-1-83, beneficiary in the payee 

code. there should be This column is 

blank on the lines only 1 containing the 

beneficiary data. beneficiary per payee 

code. 

 Also, this column is blank if the 

regular annuity rejects (REJ printed in 

column (D)) unless a deduction is 

needed for the new SMI Premium. 

 The following codes are used to 

describe any special provisions 

used to make the annuity adjustment. 

 Code Special Provision 

A actuarial adjustment 

B partial withholding 

C actuarial adjustment and 

partial withholding both apply 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

 D elected tax withholding 

 E elected tax withholding 

and actuarial adjustment 

 

 F elected tax withholding 

and partial withholding 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 175 of 312

 

 G elected tax withholding, 

actuarial adjustment, and 

partial withholding 

 

 H mandatory tax 

withholding 

 

 I mandatory tax 

withholding and actuarial 

adjustment 

 

 J mandatory tax 

withholding and partial 

withholding 

 

 K mandatory tax 

withholding, actuarial 

adjustment, and partial 

withholding 

 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 176 of 312

 

(b) ADJUSTMENT 

CHECK 

AMOUNT 

The amount of the adjustment 

check for each payee code. The 

amount is the total the RR 

annuity, SUP ANN and the SS 

benefit (if we are paying it) after 

reduction for the new SMI 

premium, if enrolled for SMI and 

SUP ANN tax withholding. The 

amount of the check is shown 

regardless of whether the annuity 

rate was or was not adjusted. 

However, if a check was not 

printed because the claim was 

suspended for other than cause 

98 (investigation of address) or 

was terminated, the amount 

column 1 will be blank. An 

asterisk (*) immediately follows 

the amount if a code 98 

suspension (investigation of 

address) is in effect. 

All. After tax 

withholding 

beginning with 

12-84 COL 

 If there is more than one survivor 

beneficiary in the payee code, 

only the date and the amount of 

the combined check are shown. 

This column is blank on the lines 

that contain data for the 

beneficiaries in the payee code. 

Should be only 1 beneficiary per 

payee code. A code "D" 

indicates whether the check is 

going to a financial organization. 

All, 1983. After 

11-1-83, there 

(c) 

 

SUPP ANN 

RED FOR RRA 

MAX 

 

This column is used to show 

several items as explained 

below: 

• The amount of reduction in the 

SUP ANN because of the 

RRA maximum. 

 

COL 

ADJUSTMENT 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 177 of 312

 

COLUMN TITLE 

CONTENT AND 

INSTRUCTIONS ADJUSTMENT 

 

• The AERO accrual amount, if it 

was computed. "REJ" and a 

reject code, if the accrual 

rejected. 

AERO 

 • The amount of the windfall 

accrual. WINDFALL 

ACCRUAL 

ADJUSTMENT 

starting 10-182 

(d) REJ/REV 

This area will show the reject and 

special handling review codes. 

All adjustment 

Appendix B - COLA Mass Adjustment Reject and Review Codes 

Introduction 

This appendix explains the reject and review codes for annual COLA mass adjustment 

operation. In each COLA mass adjustment, there are two steps in the adjustment action: 

1) the calculation of the new annuity rate and 2) the revision of the checkwriting records to 

show this new rate. In either step, a reject can occur. The type of reject is identified as 

follows: 

Type Microfilm MAIS PREH - general 

inquiry 

PREH - full inquiry 

Calculation “A” in item 45 “CALC REJ” “REJ CD - CALC” MASS-ADJCALCREJ-CD 

Checkwriting “B” in item 45 “CHICO REJ” “REJ CD - PYMNT” MASS-ADJPYMTREJ-CD 

Does a reject/review code require work? 

Most reject and review codes are indications that further work must be done in the case. 

The codes that do not require further examiner handling are identified with an asterisk (*) by 

the number in the list of codes below. The information in PREH also indicates if a 

reject/review requires examiner handling: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 178 of 312 

 

NOTE: Records in suspense, other than 35, 69, 88 or 98, during a mass adjustment are 

rejected with code 03 (MASS-ADJ-PYMT-REJ-CD). The PREH earmark should be removed 

with RREM8 when the COL is included in the reinstatement-recertification award. 

 

Type MASS-ADJ-RESULT-CD MASS-ADJ-SPEC-1-CD 

Reject - to work 2 N/A 

Reject - NAN 1 N/A 

Review - to work N/A First position of the code 

is not “X” 

Review - NAN N/A First position of the code 

is “X” 

Clearing PREH earmarks in terminated records 

An open earmark on PREH on a terminated record can be cleared with an OPO recert 

award by completing 'Earmarks Considered' for ROC awards or 'All COL's and AERO's 

Considered' for PC/manual awards. If the case must be forwarded to SIS to develop a 

possible payee, remove the earmark through the PREH correction system 

Earlier code definitions 

The definition for some reject and review codes has changed over the years. This appendix 

provides the current definition. Appendix N provides earlier definitions. The codes included 

in Appendix N are identified with ‘#’. 

Calculation rejects - retirement RR 

The following list provides the code definitions for retirement RR formula calculation rejects: 

 

Code Definition 

01# Unknown type of legal process deduction or unknown type of 3rdP party P 

payment 

02 Waiver 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 179 of 312

 

03*# COL already paid on December award - NAN if MASS-ADJ-PYMT-REJ-CD is 

09 

04 Percentage legal process deduction but no 3rdP P party record in PREH 

Code Definition 

06 No tiers in the employee’s PREH records 

07# 3rdP P party payee with SSA payment 

08 

Percentage legal process deduction or 3rdP party payment but the factor is P 

missing 

09 No PIA 1 in PREH 

10 Calculated COL gross tier 1 is less than pre-COL gross tier 1 

11# Partition case but 3rdP P party’s rate does not equal the tier components 

12# RR formula case with partition deduction and tier 1 partition amount 

13 The type of annuity is age reduced but the annuitant is over 65 on the ABD 

14 

The sum of the calculated COL tier 1 and tier 2 is less than the pre-COL tier 1 

plus tier 2 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 180 of 312

 

15# 

The type of legal process computation is unknown or the type of computation 

in the employee’s record does not agree with the type of computation code in 

one or more 3rdP P party records. 

16 

The employee’s calculated COL rate is higher than the pre-COL rate by more 

than the COL percentage 

17 The employee’s calculated COL net tier 1 is zero 

18 

The employee’s calculated COL rate is zero due to the increase in LAF C SS 

benefits 

19 

The employee’s calculated COL rate is zero and either there is no SS benefit 

or the SS benefit is LAF E 

20 The employee and spouse are paid under different formulas (RR versus OM) 

21 

Partition case but 3rdP party’s tier components do not equal the employee’s P 

partition deduction amount 

22# 

Non-partition case but 3rdP party’s rate does not equal the employee’s non-P 

partition deduction amount 

23 The employee’s calculated COL rate is less than the pre-COL rate 

Code Definition 

24 The 1937 or 1974 Act employee has no tier 2 components in PREH 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 181 of 312

 

25 

Percentage partition case and one or more of the 3rdP party’s pre-COL P 

components is not correct 

26 The calculated COL rate is less than the pre-COL rate 

27# The number of DRCs is excessive for the employee’s DOB 

28 Percentage non-partition case but the 3rdP P party’s pre-COL rate is not correct 

29 Spouse has percentage legal process deduction 

41 

The spouse is entitled to his/her own employee annuity and has SS benefits 

on an account other than the employee’s or the spouse’s. 

42 

The divorced spouse has no previous spouse entitlement and the number of 

calculated age reduction months is erroneous 

43 

The divorced spouse was previously entitled as a spouse and the number of 

calculated age reduction months is erroneous 

44 The spouse’s tier 2 is blank in PREH 

45 

The spouse’s tier 1 must be reduced by the total annuity (s)he is entitled to as 

an employee 

46 The number of age reduction months calculated for the spouse is erroneous 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 182 of 312 

 

47# 

The spouse is based on a child over 18 who is not disabled; the spouse has 

not been terminated (refer to RCM 1.3.18T A,T “When A New Application Is 

Required After Entitlement Ends.”) 

48 

The sum of the COL tier 1 and tier 2 calculated for the spouse is less than the 

pre-COL tier 1 and tier 2 

49 

The spouse pre-COL rate is zero but the calculated COL rate is greater than 

zero. 

50 

The dual RR offset needed for the spouse cannot be calculated because the 

spouse’s own employee tier 1 has a WC/PDB reduction 

51 

The COL rate calculated for the spouse is higher than the pre-COL rate by 

more than the COL percentage 

Code Definition 

52 The COL gross tier 1 calculated for the spouse is zero because there is no PIA 

in the employee’s record in PREH 

53*# Both the spouse’s pre-COL rate and the rate calculated with the COL are zero 

54 The COL rate calculated for the spouse is zero due to the increase in LAF C 

SS benefits 

55 There are no tiers in the spouse’s PREH records 

56 The employee is a disability annuitant under the 1983 Amendments but the 

spouse is not age reduced 

57 The employee and spouse are not paid under the same Act 

58 The spouse’s pre-COL gross tier 1 is incorrect 

59# The spouse’s tier 2 is not reduced for the employee’s vested dual benefit 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 183 of 312

 

60 The COL rate calculated for the spouse is less than the pre-COL rate 

61 The spouse is entitled to an annuity as an employee but no dual offset amount 

was calculated for the COLA 

62 The dual offset amount in the spouse tier 1 is erroneous 

63 The spouse is entitled to an annuity as an employee but the spouse tier 1 is not 

offset for the dual entitlement 

64 The spouse is entitled to an annuity as an employee and the employee annuity 

is missing some previous COL increases 

65 There are multiple non-divorced spouses on the rolls 

66 The COL rate calculated for the spouse is zero but the spouse is not entitled to 

SS benefits or the SS benefits are LAF E 

67 The previous ABD is needed to calculate the spouse/divorced spouse age 

reduction amount 

68 Based on the spouse ABD, the tier 2 after COL should be age reduced but no 

age reduction was calculated 

69 The spouse’s PSP information in PREH contains errors 

Code Definition 

87 The COL increase in the 3rdP P party payment is too large 

88* The calculated COL rate equals the pre-COL rate 

89 The 3rdP P party COL-increased rate is less than the pre-COL rate 

90 The employee has a percentage non-partition deduction and a variable SMIB 

premium 

91 

The RRSIA 5-year case includes an illegal component: 

• The disabled employee is under age 62 but the rate includes a tier 2, or 

• The employee does not have an SSIS but the rate includes a tier 1 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 184 of 312 

 

92 The regular annuity and/or the supplemental annuity is still reduced for the 

RRA maximum 

93 

The COL-increased RR formula rate is higher than the COL-increased OM 

formula rate but the annuity is reduced for a percentage non-partition deduction 

94 The employee or spouse has an age reduction in tier 1 but the annuity should 

be calculated under the RRSIA 60/30 provision 

95 Annuity is missing the previous COL increase. 

99 The spouse rejected because the employee rejected 

Calculation rejects – retirement OM 

The following list provides the code definitions for retirement OM formula calculation rejects: 

 

Code Definition 

05 

 

 

 

The OM could not be calculated because: 

• The spouse/divorced spouse has a PSP, or 

• The employee also receives a survivor annuity, or 

• The IPI is over age 19 and not a DAC 

Code Definition 

08 OM formula grandfather clause applies 

70 The special minimum PIA applies 

71 Work deductions apply 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 185 of 312

 

72 The spouse’s share is less than the spouse’s SS benefit amount 

73 The spouse is also entitled to an employee annuity 

74 The calculated COL rate is less than the pre-COL rate 

75 

The COL share calculated for the employee is higher than the pre-COL share 

by more than the COL percentage 

76 

The COL share calculated for the spouse is higher than the pre-COL share by 

more than the COL percentage 

77 The COL share calculated for the employee is less than the pre-COL share 

78 The COL share calculated for the spouse is less than the pre-COL share 

79 

The spouse should not be included in the OM because the all the children are 

over 16 and none of them are disabled 

80 

The pre-COL OM amount is not offset for the SS benefits the family are 

receiving 

81 There are multiple spouses included in the OM 

82# 

The total family SS benefit amount on the employee’s account includes an 

amount paid to a divorced spouse; or the divorced spouse’s formula code is 

“OM” 

83 Felony case 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 186 of 312 

 

84 The COL rate calculated is less than zero 

85 The SS benefit amount in PREH is greater than $999.99 

86 

The calculated COL OM amount is less than the calculated COL RR rate but 

the RR rate may not be correct 

Calculation rejects – survivor 

The following list provides the code definitions for survivor calculation rejects: 

 

Code Definition 

06 Annuitant has a percentage legal process deduction 

10 Waiver 

13 Disabled widow(er) is still reduced for months before age 60 

15 No tier information in PREH 

16 Disabled widow is not age reduced 

19# 

The annuitant is suspended because of excess earnings. The tier 1 and tier 2 

amounts in PREH have been updated for the COL. The checkwriting record 

was not updated; when the annuitant’s rate can again be paid, prepare a 

reinstate-recertification award. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 187 of 312

 

50 

The family has SS benefits and the calculated COL RR rate is less than the 

pre-COL rate 

51 

One or more COL rates calculated for the family is higher than the pre-COL 

rate by more than the COL percentage 

52 There is an error in the number of age reduction months 

53 

The dual RR offset needed for the widow(er) cannot be calculated because the 

widow(er)’s own employee tier 1 has a WC/PDB reduction 

54 MBR received from SSA but tier 1 is not currently reduced for SS 

55 

The widow(er) is entitled to an annuity as an employee but no dual offset 

amount was calculated for the COLA 

56# Not currently used 

57# Not currently used 

58# Not currently used 

59 

The calculated COL family rate is higher than the pre-COL family rate by more 

than $600.00 

Code Definition 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 188 of 312

 

60# 

WIMA error: 

• 1981 amendment widow(er) but WIMA total is missing, or 

• WIMA tier 2 increase amount is incorrect 

61 

The dual RR offset in the widow(er)’s tier 1 is still the gross employee tier 1 

instead of the net employee tier 1 

62 

The employee had no earnings after 1936; the widow(er) is not entitled to tier 

1 and the rest of the annuity (tier 2 and/or the VDB) are frozen 

63 Sole survivor conditions appear to apply to the disabled widow 

64 The employee’s RIB limit amount is invalid 

65 The calculated COL rate is zero due to the increase in LAF C SS benefits 

66 

The calculated COL rate is zero and either there is no SS benefit or the SS 

benefit is LAF E 

67# Not currently used 

68# COL WIMA tier 2 increase amount is incorrect 

69 The widow has an equalized amount and a restored amount 

70 The widow has an equalized amount and a spouse minimum amount 

71 Family members have the same payee code 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 189 of 312

 

72 

 

 

The spouse minimum applies and either of the following conditions was 

detected: 

• The rate calculated for the COL is less than the pre-COL rate 

• The rate calculated for the COL is higher than the pre-COL rate 

73 

The dual RR offset amount calculated for the COL tier 1 is less than the 

preCOL dual RR offset amount 

74 The pre-COL tier 1 exceeds the PIA and the sole survivor limit 

75 

The sole survivor amount applies and the annuitant has an age reduction and 

an OBD after 1977 

Code Definition 

76 The SS benefit amount received for the COL includes a B benefit for which the 

RW should not be reduced 

77 The widow(er) is entitled to an annuity as an employee and the employee 

annuity is missing some previous COL increases 

78 The widow(er)’s tier 1 must be reduced by the total annuity (s)he is entitled to 

as an employee 

79 The rate calculated for the COL is higher than the pre-COL rate by more than 

the COL percentage 

80 The rate calculated for the COL is less than the pre-COL rate; the decrease is 

not attributable to SS benefits or dual RR entitlement 

81 The widow(er) is entitled to an annuity as an employee but the widow(er) tier 1 

is not offset for the dual entitlement 

82 The rate calculated for the COL is less than the pre-COL rate; the decrease 

exceeds the increase in SS benefits and/or the dual RR offset amount 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 190 of 312 

 

83 The RW should be reduced for all SS benefits 

84 WIMA applies and COL rate decreases, but decrease amount is not valid 

88* The calculated COL rate equals the pre-COL rate 

93* Both the pre-COL rate and the rate calculated for the COL are zero 

94 The pre-COL rate is zero and the rate calculated for the COL is greater than 

zero 

95* COL already paid on December award – NAN if MASS-ADJ-PYMT-REJ-CD is

09 

96 Unable to determine the DRC increase percentage because the deceased 

employee’s day of birth is blank 

97 There is an error in the PSP information in PREH 

98 Unable to determine the deceased employee’s age reduction factor because 

the employee’s day of birth is blank 

Calculation rejects – retirement/survivor MBR matching 

 

Code Definition 

30 The COL SS benefit rate is less than the pre-COL SS benefit 

31 The COL SS benefit rate is higher than the pre-COL SS benefit amount by 

more than the COL percentage 

32 The pre-COL SS benefit amount is zero 

35 An MBR record was matched to the annuity but tier 1 is not currently offset for 

SS benefits 

38# The survivor annuitant is entitled to more than one SS benefit but the correct 

tier 1 offset amount cannot be determined 

39 The SS benefit is a Prouty benefit 

Checkwriting rejects – retirement/survivor 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 191 of 312

 

The following list provides the code definitions for retirement and survivor checkwriting 

rejects: 

 

Code Definition 

01 There is no checkwriting record for the annuitant under the prefix, claim 

number and payee code that are in PREH 

02 The annuity is terminated 

03 The annuity is suspended for other than codes 35, 69, 88 or 98 

04* The annuitant is an interim widow 

05* The pre-COL checkwriting rate equals the calculated COL rate 

07 The pre-COL rate in PREH does not equal the pre-COL checkwriting rate 

09* The COL was already paid on a December voucher 

10 A LAF E SS benefit is subtracted from the calculated COL tier 1 and either of 

the following is true: 

Code Definition 

 

 

• there is no SS benefit on checkwriting, or 

• the SS benefit on checkwriting is less than the tier 1 offset amount 

11 The COL tier 1 is not offset for SS benefits but there is an SS benefit on 

checkwriting 

12 

No MBR was matched for the RR COLA so the COL tier 1 SS offset was 

calculated by adding the COL percentage to the pre-COL tier 1 SS offset; the 

resulting offset amount is less than the SS benefit on checkwriting 

13 The calculated COL rate is more than $3000.00 and the COL rate is higher than 

the pre-COL rate by more than the COL percentage 

14 The case is still being paid a partial rate 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 192 of 312 

 

15 The SS MBR is terminated for death but the RRB is still paying an annuity 

16# Not currently used 

18 The SS benefit paid by the RRB is higher than the SS offset amount in tier 1 

20 

The checkwriting record for the employee shows a December voucher that 

paid the COL but this voucher is not reflected in PREH; the spouse was 

rejected to avoid an overpayment 

22 3rdP P party record rejected because the primary annuitant rejected. 

96* SS only case adjusted for SMIB 

97* SS only case adjusted for the COL and SMIB 

98* The RR annuity was adjusted for SMIB but not the COL 

99 

 

 

 

No COL rate was calculated for the annuitant; one of the following conditions is 

true: 

• the spouse was not selected for the COLA because the employee has been 

in suspense more than two years, or 

• the payment is a legal process payment that is not correctly identified as 

such on checkwriting, or 

• the survivor record was not selected for the COLA because PREH shows 

the rate as a partial payment, or 

Code Definition 

 • PREH and the checkwriting record do not have the same prefix, claim 

number or payee code for the annuitant 

Review codes – retirement 

The following list provides the definitions for retirement review codes: 

 

Code Definitions 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 193 of 312

 

01 

The 1983 Amendment annuitant is under age 62 but PREH indicates tier 1 has 

already been adjusted for the recalculation not due until age 62 

02# Not currently used 

03*# Not currently used 

04*# Not currently used 

05 

The OM formula is in force; the RR formula rate needs to be updated for 

previous COL increases 

06 

The MBR SS benefit did not reflect a COL increase so the COL percentage 

was added to the tier 1 SS offset. 

09 

The spouse receives his/her own employee annuity and the tier 1 dual RR 

offset amount was not adjusted for a change that was made in the employee 

annuity sometime before the COLA 

10 The spouse’s pre-COL gross tier 1 is less than half the employee’s PIA 

11 

PREH indicates the spouse should be paid the $10.00 guaranty in tier 2; the 

actual tier 2 is zero in PREH so the spouse is underpaid if the actual tier 2, with 

the COL increase, now exceeds $10.00 

12 

No tier 1 COL was calculated for the 1983 Amendment employee because tier 

1 has not been adjusted for the recalculation due at age 62 

13 

No tier 1 COL was calculated for the 1983 Amendment spouse because tier 1 

has not been adjusted for the recalculation due at age 62 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 194 of 312

 

14 

Administrative finality was applied to a DOB discrepancy but the original DOB 

is not in PREH 

Code Definitions 

15 

The special minimum PIA exceeds the regular PIA; the SPC MIN PIA was used 

for the COL but the pre-COL annuity needs to be adjusted to include the SPC 

MIN PIA 

16 The pre-COL gross tier 1 is underpaid for the 1983 Amendment spouse 

17 The employee has attained age 62 or age 65 but the WC/PDB reduction is still 

in force 

18*# Not currently used 

19 The WC/PDB offset amount is erroneous because it exceeds the gross tier 1 

20 The 1981 Amendment employee has amounts in PREH for components 2 and 

3 of tier 2 

21*# Not currently used 

22 The spouse was paid the OM formula and the RR rate could not be accurately 

updated for the COL 

23 

 

 

The OM was paid with an SS reduction but no MBR was received from SSA 

because the SS benefits are paid on an account other than the employee’s; the 

pre-COL SS amount in PREH was updated by COL percentage. The examiner 

should verify that the COL SS amount is correct; if the actual SS amount on 

the MBR is different from the amount used in the COLA take one of the 

following actions: 

• Correct the amount in PREH (3200 record) if the discrepancy is $1.00 or 

less, or 

• recertify the monthly rate if the discrepancy is more than $1.00 

24 The 1983 Amendment spouse is eligible for but has not yet received the tier 1 

recalculation due at age 62; the recalculated tier 1 will be greater than zero. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 195 of 312 

 

25 The OM formula was paid; the COL update of the RR formula rate rejected 

26 The 1983 Amendment spouse is eligible for but has not yet received the tier 1 

recalculation due at age 62; the recalculated tier 1 will be zero. 

27# PREH shows a previous COL reject has not yet been handled 

28 An MBR record was received for the spouse; tier 1 is currently reduced for dual 

RR entitlement but not for SS benefits 

Code Definitions 

29 The offset for dual RR entitlement in the spouse’s tier 1 was calculated by 

adding the COL percentage to the previous offset amount 

40 The spouse’s gross tier 2 is less than 45 percent of the employee’s tier 2 and 

the spouse’s net tier 2 is greater than zero 

41 The spouse’s gross tier 2 is less than 45 percent of the employee’s tier 2 and 

the spouse’s net tier 2 is zero. 

42 The spouse tier 1 is reduced for a non-OPM PSP. Net tier 1 was zero before 

the COL, but the COL net tier 1 is greater than zero. 

Review codes – survivor 

The following list provides the definitions for survivor review codes: 

 

Code Definitions 

61*# Not currently used 

62 The spouse minimum guaranty applies 

63 The case has one annuitant who is receiving less than the minimum PIA 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 196 of 312

 

65# Not currently used 

66 

The pre-COL tier 1 of the annuitant(s) is less than the statutory share; a family 

member may have been terminated but the corresponding adjustment was not 

made in the shares of the family maximum 

67 

The offset for dual RR entitlement in the widow(er)’s tier 1 was calculated by 

adding the COL percentage to the previous offset amount 

68 

The family group has SS benefits and the COL rate is less than the pre-COL 

rate 

69 

The MBR SS benefit did not reflect a COL increase so the COL percentage 

was added to the tier 1 SS offset. 

70 

The widow(er) receives his/her own employee annuity and the tier 1 dual RR 

offset amount was not adjusted for a change that was made in the employee 

annuity sometime before the COLA 

Code Definitions 

71# Not currently used 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 197 of 312 

 

72 

The special minimum PIA exceeds the regular PIA; the SPC MIN PIA was used 

for the COL but the pre-COL annuity needs to be adjusted to include the SPC 

MIN PIA 

73 

The remarried widow or surviving divorced spouse has tier 2 and/or VDB 

information in PREH 

74 PREH shows a previous COL reject has not yet been handled 

75 

PREH shows DRCs that were not included in the pre-COL tier 1. The COLA 

did not use the DRCs. The examiner should adjust the rate to include the 

DRCs, or, if the DRCs are erroneous, remove them from PREH. 

76 

Conditions exist for Parisi redistribution; pre-COL tier 1 does not include Parisi 

increase. 

77 

The widow9er0 tier 1 is reduced for a non-OPM PSP. Net tier 1 was zero 

before the COL, but the COL net tier 1 is greater than zero. 

Review codes – MBR 

The following list provides definitions for MBR review codes: 

 

Code Definition 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 198 of 312

 

30 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One of the following is true about the MBR: 

• it is terminated, or 

• it is in suspense for waiver, or 

• it is in suspense for felony imprisonment, or 

• it is in suspense for a trail work period 

Check to be sure the MBR information is correct. 

If the MBR information is correct, remove the SS offset from tier 1; if the SS 

benefit is suspended for a trial work period, set a call-up to restore the tier 1 

SS offset when the SS benefit is reinstated. 

Code Definition 

 If the MBR information is not correct, make the necessary corrections (eg., 

remove the erroneous MBR earmark, etc.) 

31# The LAF is E or the RRIC is R and the SS date of entitlement is prior to the 

current year, but tier 1 is not offset for the SS benefit 

32 The MBR is terminated for death 

33 

No MBR was matched. Tier 1 is reduced for SSA; the COL SS offset was 

calculated by adding the COL percentage to the pre-COL offset. Net tier 1 is 

zero before and after the COLA. 

34 

No MBR was matched. Tier 1 is reduced for SSA; the COL SS offset was 

calculated by adding the COL percentage to the pre-COL offset. Net tier 1 is 

greater than zero. 

35* 

(Surv) An MBR was received for survivor benefits on the deceased employee’s 

account. Review the case to verify which agency has jurisdiction for payment 

of the survivor benefits. If the review confirms RRB jurisdiction, advise SSA to 

correct the laf code to “T0” effective with the month and year of the railroad 

employee’s death via RR-3 using the priority fax process. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 199 of 312 

 

35 (Ret) The 1937/1974 Act annuitant is age reduced. The SS benefit (LAF C or E) was 

increased before the COLA, but tier 1 was not adjusted for the increase. The 

correct SS offset was used in the COLA, but tier 1 must be adjusted to correct 

the calculation of the age reduction. 

36 

The LAF C SS benefit was increased before the COLA, but tier 1 was not 

adjusted for the increase. The correct SS offset was used in the COLA but the 

pre-COL rate(s) are overpaid. 

37 The SS offset in tier 1 is higher than the SS rate received on the MBR. 

38* The SS offset in tier 1 is higher than the SS rate received on the MBR, and net 

tier 1 is zero. 

39 

 

 

 

SSA and the RRB do not agree on one or more of the following: 

• Name 

• DOB 

• BOAN 

Code Definition 

 • The MBR matched for the COLA may not actually belong to the annuitant. 

Appendix C - Survivor Decombining Adjustment (paper) Appendix D - 

Folder Notice Format (paper) 

Appendix E - AERO Mass Adjustment History 

Introduction 

The following charts provide historical information for the AERO mass adjustment 

operations. The first chart describes the data that was displayed on microfilm and 

microfiche for the AERO operations from 1978 through 1992. 

Beginning in 1993, micrographics were no longer used; the AERO information was 

provided on MAIS for the operations performed in 1993 through 1995. Beginning in 1995, 

AERO information is located in PREH. MAIS was not updated after 1995. The second 

chart provides the dates for operations after 1992. 

Chart 1 – 1978 through 1991 AEROs 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 200 of 312

 

The following chart describes the information provided on micrographics for the AERO 

operations performed from 1978 through 1991. An asterisk (*) next to the OPO payment 

date means the actual release of the accrual must be verified on the AERO SAMM tape if 

the annuitant was in suspense on the date the accrual was paid or if the annuitant had 

excess earnings in the AERO earnings year: 

Earnings 

year 

Payment 

adjusted 

OPO 

date OPO information Film display 

1977 12-1-78 9-25-79* 

1-1-1978 or the ABD accrued 

through 10-31-1978 N/A 

1978 4-1-82 4-13-82* 

1-1-1979, 1-1-1980, 1-1-1981, 11-

1982, or the ABD accrued through 

2-28-1982 

Accrual in item c 

1979 and 

1980 

4-1-83 4-15-83* 

1-1-1980, 1-1-1981, 1-1-1982, 11-

1983 or the ABD accrued through 

2-28-1983 

Accrual in item c 

1981 8-1-84 9-20-84* Accrued through 6-30-1984 Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1982 

Earnings 

year 

Payment 

adjusted 

OPO 

date 

OPO information Film display 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 201 of 312

 

• B = 1-1-1983 

• C = 1-1-1984 

• D = ABD 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item Q P

• 2ndP in item S P

• 3rdP in item T P

Total accrual: item c 

1982 8-1-85 9-20-85* Accrued through 6-30-1985 Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1983 

• B = 1-1-1984 

• C = 1-1-1985 

• D = ABD 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item M P

• 2ndP in item M P

• 3rdP in item S P

Total accrual: item c 

1983 8-1-86 7-18-86 Accrued through 6-30-1986 Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1984 

• B = 1-1-1985 

• C = 1-1-1986 

• D = ABD 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 202 of 312

 

Earnings 

year 

Payment 

adjusted 

OPO 

date 

OPO information Film display 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item K P

• 2ndP in item M P

• 3rdP in item O P

Total accrual: item S 

1984 10-1-86 9-24-86 Accrued through 8-31-1986 Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1985 

• B = 1-1-1986 

• C = ABD 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item K P

• 2ndP in item M P

Total accrual: item O 

1985 10-1-87 9-24-87 Accrued through 8-31-1987 Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1986 

• B = 1-1-1987 

• C = ABD 

• D = month 62 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item K P

• 2ndP in item M P

Total accrual: item O 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 203 of 312

 

1986 8-1-88 7-25-88 Accrued through 6-30-1988 Effective date: 

Earnings 

year 

Payment 

adjusted 

OPO 

date 

OPO information Film display 

• A = 1-1-1987 

• B = 1-1-1988 

• C = ABD 

• D = month 62 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item K P

• 2ndP in item L P

Total accrual: item M 

1987 5-1-89 4-17-89 Accrued through 3-31-1989 

Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1988 

• B = 1-1-1989 

• C = ABD 

• D = month 62 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item 5 P

• 2ndP in item 11 P

Total accrual: item 15 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 204 of 312

 

1988 5-1-90 4-17-90 Accrued through 3-31-1990 Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1989 

• B = 1-1-1990 

• C = ABD 

• D = month 62 

• E = month EE 62 

Earnings 

year 

Payment 

adjusted 

OPO 

date 

OPO information Film display 

• F = SSA DOE 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item 5 P

• 2ndP in item 11 P

Total accrual: item 15 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 205 of 312

 

1989 5-1-91 4-18-91 Accrued through 3-31-1991 

Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1990 

• B = 1-1-1991 

• C = ABD 

• D = month 62 

• E = month EE 62 

• F = SSA DOE 

• G = 12-1-1990 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item 5 P

• 2ndP in item 11 P

Total accrual: item 15 

1990 5-1-92 4-17-92 Accrued through 3-31-1992 Effective date: 

• A = 1-1-1991 

• B = 1-1-1992 

• C = ABD 

• D = month 62 

• E = month EE 62 

Earnings 

year 

Payment 

adjusted 

OPO 

date 

OPO information Film display 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 206 of 312 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• F = SSA DOE 

• G = 12-1-1991 

Increase amounts: 

• 1stP in item 5 P 

• 2ndP in item 11 P 

Total accrual: item 15 

Chart 2 - AEROs after 1992 

The following chart provides the dates for the AERO operations performed after 1992: 

 

Earnings year Payment adjusted OPO date OPO accrued through 

1991 5-1-1993 4-20-1993 3-31-1993 

1992 5-1-1994 4-19-1994 3-31-1994 

1993 10-1-1994 9-20-1994 8-31-1994 

1994 10-1-1995 9-19-1995 8-31-1995 

1995 10-1-1996 9-18-1996 8-31-1996 

1996 10-1-1997 9-18-1997 8-31-1997 

1997 10-1-1998 9-18-1998 8-31-1998 

1998 10-1-1999 9-20-1999 8-31-1999 

1999 10-1-2000 9-19-2000 8-31-2000 

2000 10-1-2001 9-18-2001 8-31-2001 

2001 10-1-2002 9-18-2002 8-31-2002 

2002 10-1-2003 9-19-2003 8-31-2003 

2003 10-1-2004 9-23-2004 8-31-2004 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 207 of 312 

 

Earnings year Payment adjusted OPO date OPO accrued through 

2004 10-1-2005 9-22-2005 8-31-2005 

Appendix F - RAIL Mass Adjustment History 

Introduction 

The following charts provide historical information for the RAIL mass adjustment operations. 

The first chart describes the data that was displayed on microfilm and microfiche for the 

RAIL operations from 1989 through 1991. 

Beginning in 1992, micrographics were no longer used; the RAIL information was provided 

on MAIS for the operations performed in 1992 through 1995. The second chart provides 

the dates for these operations. 

Beginning in 1995, RAIL information is located in PREH. MAIS was not updated after 1995. 

The second chart provides the dates for operations in 1995 and later. 

Chart 1 - 1989-1991 RAILs 

The following chart describes the information provided on micrographics for the RAIL 

operations performed from 1989 through 1991: 

 

 

Lag 

year 

 

Payment 

adjusted 

 

Accrual 

paid 

 

Tier 1 eff. 

date (film 

code) 

 

Tier 1 increase 

amounts (film 

items) 

 

Tier 2 eff. 

date (film 

code) 

Tier 2 

increase 

amounts 

(film items) 

1988 9-1-89 8-21-89 A = ABD 

#5 = 1stP P 

increase 

A = ABD 

#19 = 1stP P

increase 

 B = 1/89 #11 = 2ndP P 

increase 

B = VDB 

DOE 

#23 = 2ndP P 

increase 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 208 of 312

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C = 

month 70 

D = 

month 62 

E = 

month 

spouse 62 

F = 

SSA 

DOE 

#15 = total 

accrual 

 

 

 

C = 12/88 

 

 

 

#31 = total 

accrual 

 

 

 

Lag 

year 

Payment 

adjusted 

Accrual 

paid 

Tier 1 eff. 

date (film 

code) 

Tier 1 increase 

amounts (film 

items) 

Tier 2 eff. 

date (film 

code) 

Tier 2 

increase 

amounts 

(film items) 

 G = 12/88 

1989 9-1-90 8-20-90 A = ABD 

#5 = 1stP P

increase 

A = ABD 

 

#19 = 1stP P

increase 

 B = 1/90 

#11 = 2ndP P 

increase 

B = VDB 

DOE 

#23 = 2ndP P 

increase 

 C = month 

70 

#14 = 3rdP P

increase 

 #27 = 3rdP P

increase 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 209 of 312 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D = 

month 62 

E = 

month 

spouse 62 

F = 

SSA 

DOE 

#15 = total 

accrual 

 

 

 

 

 

#31 = total 

accrual 

 

 

1990 9-1-91 8-16-91 A = ABD 

#5 = 1stP P 

increase 

A = ABD 

#19 = 1stP P

increase 

 B = 1/91 #11 = 2ndP P 

increase 

B = VDB 

DOE 

#23 = 2ndP P 

increase 

 C = month 

70 

#14 = 3rdP P

increase 

 #27 = 3rdP P

increase 

 D = month 

62 

#15 = total 

accrual 

 #31 = total 

accrual 

 E = month 

spouse 62 

 

#35 = 

spouse o/p 

amount 

 F = SSA 

DOE 

 

#39 = net T1 

+ T2 accrual 

Chart 2 - RAILs 1992 and later The following chart provides the dates for the RAIL 

operations performed after 1991: 

 

Lag year Payment adjusted Accrual paid 

1991 9-1-92 8-17-92 

1992 9-1-93 8-18-93 

1993 9-1-94 8-19-94 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 210 of 312

 

1994 9-1-95 8-18-95 

1995 7-1-96 6-18-96 

1996 7-1-97 6-18-97 

1997 7-1-98 6-18-98 

1998 7-1-99 6-18-99 

1999 7-1-00 6-20-00 

2000 7-1-01 6-19-01 

2001 7-1-02 6-18-02 

2002 7-1-03 6-18-03 

2003 7-1-04 6-22-04 

2004 7-1-05 6-23-05 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 211 of 312

 

Appendix G - COL Increase Percentages 

Appendix_G: Percentages 

The following table provides the annual COL increase percentages for tier 1 and tier2. 

 

Date Tier 1 % Tier 2 % Date Tier 1 % Tier 2 % Date Tier 1 % Tier 2 % 

1965 7 N/A 12/1992 3 1 12/2017 2 0.7 

1968 13 N/A 12/1993 2.6 0.8 12/2018 2.8 0.9 

1970 15 N/A 12/1994 2.8 0.9 12/2019 1.6 0.5 

1971 10 N/A 12/1995 2.6 0.8 12/2020 1.3 0.4 

9/1972 20 N/A 12/1996 2.9 0.9 12/2021 5.9 1.9 

3/1974 7 N/A 12/1997 2.1 0.7 12/2022 8.7 2.8

6/1974 3.74 N/A 12/1998 1.3 0.4 

6/1975 8 N/A 12/1999 2.5 0.8 

6/1976 6.4 N/A 12/2000 3.5 1.1 

6/1977 5.9 1.9 12/2001 2.6 0.8 

6/1978 6.5 2.1 12/2002 1.4 0.5 

6/1979 9.9 3.2 12/2003 2.1 0.7 

6/1980 14.3 4.6 12/2004 2.7 0.9 

6/1981 11.2 3.6 12/2005 4.1 1.3 

6/1982 7.4 2.4 12/2006 3.3 1.1 

6/1983 N/A 1.1 12/2007 2.3 0.7 

12/1983 3.5 N/A 12/2008 5.8 1.9 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 212 of 312 

 

Date Tier 1 % Tier 2 % Date Tier 1 % Tier 2 % Date Tier 1 % Tier 2 % 

12/1984 3.5 1.1 12/2009 0 0 

12/1985 3.1 N/A 12/2010 0 0 

12/1986 1.3 0.4 12/2011 3.6 1.2 

12/1987 4.2 1.4 12/2012 1.7 0.6 

12/1988 4 1.3 12/2013 1.5 0.5 

12/1989 4.7 1.5 12/2014 1.7 0.6 

12/1990 5.4 1.8 12/2015 0 0 

12/1991 3.7 1.2 12/2016 0.3 0.1 

Appendix H - Non-Current Mass Adjustment Reject And Review Codes 

Appendix H provides lists of reject and review codes for mass adjustment operations which 

are either no longer performed or are not performed on an annual basis. The operations 

covered are: 

i. Section 1: Vested Dual Benefit Cutback 

j. Section 2: Retirement Lag/DRC Adjustment 

k. Section 3: Student Phase-Out Operations 

Section 1: Vested Dual Benefit Cutback Reject Codes 

The following is a list of the reject codes for VDB Cutback adjustments. 

Retirement DP&A RR Calculation Reject Codes for VDB Cutback Adjustment 

 

Reject Code Explanation 

11 Appears no CB in force (used in mass adjustment to remove CB 

reduction) 

12 Research VDB after cutback greater than Research VDB after age 

reduction 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 213 of 312

 

13 The gross windfall minus the age reduction and military service 

reduction is less than zero 

14 VDB after Adjustment is less than zero 

Reject Code Explanation 

15 Annuity after VDB adjustment is less than zero 

16 Invalid increase 

17 VDB after CB is zero 

20 Entire VDB is being withheld for work deductions 

21 Part of VDB is being withheld for work deductions 

23 Total VDB equals VDB after CB 

24 Invalid VDB age reduction amount 

Survivor DP&A RR Calculation Reject Code for VDB Cutback Adjustment 

 

Reject Code Explanation 

50 Net VDB after adjustment is zero 

51 Widow(er's) annuity after adjustment is less than zero 

52 Family annuity rate after Adjustment is less than zero 

53 No change in widow(er)'s annuity after adjustment 

54 No change in family annuity rate after adjustment 

55 Record indicates VDB not previously adjusted 

56 Annuity after adjustment is out of range 

57 Appears CB amount incorrect 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 214 of 312 

 

58 Error in net annuity 

Retirement and Survivor Benefit Payment (Checkwriting) Reject Codes for VDB Cutback

Adjustment 

 

Reject Code Explanation 

01 There is no CHICO master. 

Reject Code Explanation 

04 The CHICO record is interim widow. 

05 The CHICO pre VDB cutback rate equals the rate after VDB cutback 

from Research. 

07 The pre VDB cutback rate in CHICO does not equal the pre VDB 

cutback rate from Research. 

Section 2: EE LAG Reject and Review Codes 

The following is a list of the reject and review codes for the EE LAG adjustment. The last 

LAG mass adjustment was performed in May 1988. Beginning in 1989, the RAIL job 

(Section 6) added lag service to annuity computations. 

Employee DP & A RR Calculation Reject Codes for EE LAG Adjustment 

 

Reject Code Explanation 

08 COL Reject 

10 J & S Option 

11 Waiver 

12 Tier 1 withheld- felony 

13 Computed gross Tier 1 unequal to gross Tier 1 in RES record 

14 Computed old rate unequal to old ratein RES record 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 215 of 312 

 

17 O/M Case 

22 Reduced LY83 case age 62 but tier 1 not yet recalculated 

40 Invalid age reduction months 

41 Tier Increase negative or too high 

42 Decrease case 

43 Lag recomp - increase too high 

44 Additional DRC increase too high 

Reject Code Explanation 

46 New Rate Zero 

47 No offset, and increase percentage too high 

48 Incorrect ABD --DRC's invalid 

49 Administrative finality applied to E/E DOB discrepancy 

Spouse DP & A RR Calculation Reject Codes for EE LAG Adjustment 

 

Reject Code Explanation 

18 Waiver 

19 Computed old rate unequal to old rate in RES record 

20 O/M Case 

52 Gross tier 1 not recomputed 

53 Spouse has other RR benefit amount but not own E/E annuity 

54 1937/74 Act - Tier 1 decrease before age 

55 Age reduction months greater than 36 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 216 of 312 

 

56 Spouse alone - no matching EE record 

57 Net increase in the spouse tier 1 is negative or too high 

58 Spouse decrease case 

59 Administrative finality applied to SP DOB discrepancy 

60 Spouse increase percentage too high 

61 New rate zero 

62 SP has WC reduction 

63 SP has own E/E annuity 

64 SP has other RR annuity amount equal to SP gross tier 1 

Reject Code Explanation 

65 Calculated age reduction months are zero 

66 Error in divorced spouse age reduction months 

Employee and Spouse Benefit Payment (Checkwriting) Reject Codes for EE LAG

Adjustment 

 

Reject Code Explanation 

01 No CHICO Master 

02 CHICO record terminated 

03 CHICO record in suspense for other than cause 98 

04 CHICO record is interim widow 

05 Matched on new rate 

07 Unmatched on old rate 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 217 of 312 

 

11 Railroad adjustment computed without social security offset - SS 

benefit in active pay status on CHICO 

12 Due process 

13 New rate more than $2000 or too small for SMI premium deduction 

Employee and Spouse Special Handling (Review) Codes For EE LAG Adjustment 

 

Reject Code Explanation 

31 Dual RR case 

32 Retro DRC's due 

33 Check LAG PIA - may be paid too early 

34 SP tier 1 withheld - felony or alien suspension 

Section 3 - Student Reinstatement and Family Adjustment Reject Codes 

The following is a list of the reject and special handling codes the Student Reinstatement 

and Family Adjustment. 

DP&A Calculation Reject Codes for Student/Family Adjustment 

 

Reject Code Explanation 

1 Waiver of benefits is involved 

2 Partial award 

3 Widow(er) with own RR annuity 

4 Tier I PIA equals zero or tier I PIA is over $1,200 

5 Disabled widow(er) with no age reduction 

6 More than one widow(er) or remarried widow(er) 

7 Retirement to survivor conversion phase-out student involved 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 218 of 312

 

8 Non-student CPS family member was COL reject 

9 Non-student CPS family member with net tier 1 and no 4(g) takeback 

amount 

10 Family composition in force is greater than family composition in CPS 

11 Redetermination savings clause--aged widow(er) and student only 

involved 

12 Redetermination savings clause applies--aged widow(er) and 2 or 

more other members involved 

13 Student alone receiving SS benefit 

14 Family member other than widow(er) has an SS benefit 

15 1937 Act Conversion case where the additional amount payable in tier 

II applies 

16 Non-student family member with net tier I but no 4(g) amount 

recovered 

Reject Code Explanation 

26 1981 Act case 

27 No student in family with date of birth after 10-01-61. 

41 Deemed PIA is greater than regular PIA in force 

42 Disabled widow with less than 60 or more than 180 age reduction 

months 

43 May individual rate increased by more than [15%] 

44 May individual rate decreased 

45 May individual rate increased more than $200.00 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 219 of 312 

 

46 May family rate increased by more than $400.00 

47 

 

June 1982 individual rate increased by more than 65% 

In June 1983 and June 1984 this code means: additional tier 2 amount 

48 June 1982 individual rate decreased 

49 June individual rate increased 58 more than $200.00 

50 June 1982 family rate increased more than $400.00 

51 Frozen minimum or special minimum PIA applies 

52 EE year of eligibility is zero or after 1981 

53 PIA not in PIA table 

54 EE year of eligibility is after 1978 and EE DOD is after (1982) 

55 1981 Act Case (1982) Increase Case 

56 September individual rate increased more than 35% 

57 Student September net tier I is greater than May net tier I (does not 

include SSM Student) 

58 

Student September rate is less than 70% (1982) or 60% of the May rate 

Reject Code Explanation 

59 Deemed PIA is greater than regular and special minimum PIA 

Benefit Payment (Checkwriting) Reject Codes for Student/Family Adjustments 

 

Reject Codes Explanation 

01 There is no CHICO master 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 220 of 312 

 

05 The CHICO pre adjustment rate equals the rate after adjustment from 

Research 

07 The pre adjustment rate in CHICO does not equal the pre adjustment 

rate from Research 

Special Handling Codes for Student/Family Adjustment 

 

Code Explanation 

10 Widowed Mother/Father in suspense, should be terminated 

17 Computed net annuity not within dollar tolerance of net annuity in the 

Research record. 

41 No May 1982 family maximum amount. 

42 One member student family with sole survivor equal to $122.00. 

43 Student with EE years of eligibility zero or after 1981. 

44 Sole survivor student with no tier 1 benefit. 

Appendix I - Supplemental Annuity Sequestration History 

 

Check Dates % Notice Microfilm Description 

12-1-87 through 2-1-88 

(benefit for11/87-1/88) 

8.5 T-10 check 

stuffer 

11-87 SUPP ADJ Benefits reduced 

Check Dates % Notice Microfilm Description 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 221 of 312

 

3-1-88(benefit for2/88) N/A T-17 check 

stuffer 

2-88 SUPP ADJ 

Cutback removed. Full 

refund for 1/87 - 1/88 

paid unless: 

• employee 

suspended other 

than code 98 

• cutback removed by 

examiner on 

January voucher 

January 1988 TAS 

Recert removed cutback 

from 2/1/88 payment. 

February mass 

adjustment issued refund 

for 11/87 - 12/87 

11-1-89 through2-1-90 

(benefit for10/89 - 1/90) 

2.7 T-10 letter 10-89 SUPP ADJ Benefits reduced 

3-1-90 through10-1-90 

(benefit for 2/90 - 9/90) 

0.7 T-48 letter 2-90 SUPP ADJ Percentage reduced. 

Difference between 2.7% 

and 0.7% for 

10/89 - 1/90 paid unless: 

• suspended for other 

than code 98 

• amount less than 

$1.00 

11-1-90 (benefit for10/90) 

N/A T-10 letter None Cutback removed. No 

refund. 

Appendix J - Vested Dual Benefit Adjustment History 

 

ADJ DT CB% CHECK DT EXPLANATION 

09/17/81 

 

 

21% 

 

 

10/01/81 

 

 

VDB reduced effective 9/81 

Notice - mechanical letter 

Record - 10/01/81 VDB CB microfilm 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 222 of 312

 

ADJ DT CB% CHECK DT EXPLANATION 

11/16/81 

 

 

100% 

 

 

12/01/81 

 

 

VDB for 11/81 withheld 

Notice - postcard 

Record - 12/01/81 MOMS microfilm 

12/04/81 

 

 

N/A 

 

 

12/04/81 

 

 

OPO issued for 79% of VDB for 11/81 

Notice - postcard 

Record - 12/01/81 VDB SUPP PMT microfilm 

12/16/81 

 

 

15% 

 

 

01/01/82 

 

 

VDB reduced effective 12/81 

Notice - T-18 insert 

Record - 01/02/82 VDB CB microfilm 

02/16/82 

 

 

N/A 

 

 

02/16/82 

 

 

OPO issued for 6% of VDB for 9/81, 10/81 and 

11/81 

Notice - T-5 insert 

Record - 02/16/82 VDB ACCL microfilm 

09/20/82 

 

 

0% 

 

 

10/01/82 

 

 

Full VDB paid retroactively effective 7/82. The 

VDB was increased eff with the 10/01 payment 

for 9/82. The accrual for 7/82 and 8/82 was 

included in the 10/01 pymt. 

Notice - T-6 insert 

Record - 10/01/82 VDB ADJ microfilm 

03/18/86 

 

 

7.7% 

 

 

04/01/86 

 

 

VDB reduced effective 3/86 

Notice - T-32 insert 

Record - 03/01/86 VDB CB microfilm 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 223 of 312

 

09/15/86 

 

 

0% 

 

 

10/01/86 

 

 

Full VDB paid effective 9/86 

Notice - T-16 insert 

Record -09/01/86 AERO/WF ADJ microfilm 

ADJ DT CB% CHECK DT EXPLANATION 

03/01/88 

 

 

5.3% 

 

 

04/01/88 

 

 

VDB reduced effective 3/88 

Notice - T-8 insert 

Record - 04/01/88 VDB CB microfilm 

09/19/88 

 

 

0% 

 

 

10/01/88 

 

 

Full VDB paid effective 9/88 

Notice - T-16 insert 

Record - 09/01/88 VDB ADJ microfilm 

12/15/95 

 

 

64% 

 

 

01/01/96 

 

 

VDB reduced effective 12/95 

Notice - T-60 letter 

Record - PREH 

01/19/96 

 

 

0% 

 

 

02/01/96 

 

 

Full VDB paid effective 12/95. The monthly 

payment for 1/96 was increased. An OPO was 

issued for 12/95. 

Notice - T-60 letter 

Record - PREH 

Appendix K - AERO Mass Adjustment Reject and Review Codes 

This appendix explains the reject and review codes for the annual AERO mass adjustment 

operation. 

In each AERO mass adjustment, there are two steps in the adjustment action: 1) the 

calculation of the new annuity rate and 2) the revision of the checkwriting records to show 

this new rate. In either step, a reject can occur. Calculation rejects are type "A" in item 45 

of the microfilm, "CALC REJ" on MAIS and "REJ CD CALC" on the MAD screen of PREH. 

Checkwriting rejects are type "B" in item 45 of the microfilm, "CHICO REJ" on MAIS and 

"REJ CD PYMNT" on the MAD screen of PREH. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 224 of 312 

 

Most reject and review codes are indications that further work must be done in the case. 

Some reject and review codes do not cause the case to be earmarked for further handling 

by examiners. The codes that do not require further examiner handling are identified with 

an asterisk (*) by the number. 

NOTE: Records in suspense, other than 35, 69, 88 or 98, during a mass adjustment are 

rejected with code 03 (PREH: 'REJ CD PAYMENT'). Prior to the 1998 AERO, the earmark 

was only present on PREH, not DATAQ. Before submitting a reinst/recert award, verify any 

earmarks on PREH, screen 3250, and remove them if appropriate. Beginning with the 1998 

AERO, earmarks are no longer present on DATAQ regardless of the reject or review code. 

An open earmark on PREH is to be cleared on a terminated record by completing 

'Earmarks Considered' for ROC awards or 'All COL's and AERO's Considered' for 

PC/manual awards and processing an OPO recert award. If the case must be forwarded to 

SIS to develop a possible payee, remove the earmark through the PREH correction 

facility. 

The definition of some codes has changed over the years. This appendix gives the 

current definition. Appendix N provides earlier definitions. The codes included in Appendix 

N are identified with ‘#’. 

DPA RR Calculation Reject Codes for AERO Adjustment (Film:"REJ A")(MAIS:"CALC

REJ")(PREH:"REJ CD CALC") 

 

Reject Explanation 

Codes 

01* Increase in years of coverage but not PIA 

02* Termination 

03 DRCs exceed maximum number allowable based on age 

04 Partial Award 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 225 of 312

 

05* AERO wages but insufficient to increase PIA or already included in the PIA 

06* Temporary rate 

07 

Work deduction information out-of-balance or tier 1 work deduction with SSA 

offset or VDB work deduction but no VDB or tier 1 work deduction with prior 

COLA reject 

08 Tier 1 PIA missing 

09 Error in pre-AERO net tier 1 in PREH 

10 Joint and survivor option 

11 Employee waiver 

Reject Explanation 

12 

Record shows reduced age annuity but no age reduction or full age or 

disability annuity with age reduction 

13 Pre-AERO Gross tier 1 in PREH incorrect 

14 Error in employee pre-AERO annuity rate in PREH 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 226 of 312

 

15 Employee adjusted rate is negative 

16 

EE has multiple SSN's, SSA indicates the SSN is incorrect or the wage 

record may have an error; the PIA increase seems excessive so the case 

has been rejected 

17 EE paid under O/M 

18 Spouse Waiver 

19 Error in spouse pre-AERO annuity rate in PREH 

20 Spouse paid under O/M 

21 Worker's compensation or other disability benefit reduction 

22 

Increase in employee adjusted net annuity rate is excessive; the wages 

posted may be erroneous; request a field office investigation where 

appropriate 

23 Employee type of annuity code blank in PREH 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 227 of 312

 

24 Recomp not payable until future date 

25 

1937 Act case and wage record may be incorrect or employee's age makes 

the wages suspect 

26 PIA must be modified for NCSP 

27 The employee's lawyear type code in the record is invalid 

28 EE is LY83 disability but SP not age reduced 

29 Current PIA is AIME PIA; AERO PIA is not AIME PIA 

30 

Discrepancy between the annuity type code used by SEARCH and the 

annuity type code now in PREH 

Reject Explanation 

31 

Discrepancy between the PIA 1 eligibility year used by SEARCH and the 

eligibility year now in PREH 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 228 of 312

 

32 

SP has own RR annuity but the offset amount in the record does not reduce 

the adjusted spouse tier 1 to zero 

33 SP annuity type code blank in PREH 

34 SP PSP amount must be verified before tier 1 increase can be paid 

35 

RRA max applies and tier I increase payable from ABD; use FAMC on 

AERO G90 if employee paid final after 4-27-94; otherwise request FAMC 

computation under old rules. Not used after 2001. 

36 

RRA max may apply; use FAMC on AERO G90 if employee paid final after 

4-27-94; otherwise request FAMC computation under old rules. Not used 

after 2004. 

37 RR Earnings may be posted as SS wages 

38 Employee net tier 1 zero but rate increases 

39 SEARCH Reject 

40 Employee calculated age reduction months exceed the maximum allowable 

41 Decrease in employee net tier I 

42 Employee rate decrease more than a dollar 

43* Employee rate decrease less than a dollar 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 229 of 312

 

44 

Divorced spouse age reduction based on previous spouse annuity ABD -

previous ABD not in PREH 

45 

Lawyear 83 spouse is less than 62 but the record shows the age 62 tier 1 

recalculation has been done 

47 

RRA max applies; PIA I increase may be due from ABD; new FAMC 

provided on AERO G90. Not used after 2001. 

48 Spouse based on non-disabled child who has attained age 16 

52 

Current SPC MIN PIA exceeds current regular PIA 1 but SPC MIN not used 

for tier 1 

Reject Explanation 

53 Spouse rate decrease more than a dollar 

54* Spouse rate decrease less than a dollar 

55 

Calculated spouse age reduction months exceed the maximum allowable or 

do not equal the number of months PREH 

56 Spouse net tier 1 zero but total rate increases 

57 Decrease in spouse net tier I 

58 Spouse adjusted rate is negative 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 230 of 312

 

59 Increase in spouse new rate is excessive 

61 Annuity type is full age 65 but EE under 65 on ABD 

62 Law year 83 EE - less than 360 RR Service months in EDM 

63 

Administrative finality applied to employee DOB but original DOB not in 

record 

64 Administrative finality applied to spouse DOB but original DOB not in record 

65 

AERO PIA program calculated TRANS or 1977 O.S PIA; current PIA is AIME 

or AMW 

66 

Employee has earnings in the AERO year or the prior year; RBD previously 

reported an error in the employee’s earnings record. Determine if the 

previous error has been corrected. 

67 

Total work deduction amount increased by more than the increase in tier 1 or 

case has tier 1 work deduction and net annuity changed 

68 No wage record received for AERO; AERO PIA less than PREH PIA 

69 

EE currently overpaid because RR earnings erroneously duplicated by SSA 

were used in the current PIA 

70 AERO PIA must be recomputed to include deemed MS credits 

72 

No change in AMW/AIME but PIA decreases - possible error in previous 

payments 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 231 of 312

 

73 Percentage of EE's annuity is being garnished 

Reject Explanation 

74 AERO PIA eligibility year is different from current PIA eligibility year; AERO 

PIA less than current PIA 

75* EE has more than 4 periods of M/S 

76 AERO PIA less than current PIA - AERO wages included in PIA 

77 Dual EE receives spouse or widow annuity which must be reduced for EE 

AERO increase 

78 Multiple non-divorced spouses on record 

79* Tier 1 zero but rate increases- increase less than $1.00 

80 1959 RR compensation code blank in PREH; AERO PIA must be 

recomputed 

81 Employee has miscellaneous compensation 1982-84 and AERO PIA less 

than PREH PIA 

82 Correct SS benefit rate not available for tier 1 offset 

83 Law year 83 employee with pre-ABD earnings that increase the ABD PIA 

84 SEARCH did not use correct special drop out years for the PIA calculation; 

request a new PIA computation 

85 Open RAIL reject 

86 Employee returned to service after the ABD and the annuity was suspended 

for a period of months. 

87 

Employee has wages in the AERO year but administrative finality was 

previously applied to the earnings record. Request a PIA computation from 

CCU using the new wages with the earnings record to which finality was 

applied. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 232 of 312 

 

88* No change in net annuity rate 

89 

More than 3 service months have been reported for periods after the ABD – 

PEMS must investigate for a return to RR service; adjust the case based on 

the revised G90 

90 RRSIA 5 year annuity with gross tier 1 but employee does not have SS 

insured status. 

Reject Explanation 

99 Spouse rejected because employee rejected 

Checkwriting Reject Codes for AERO Adjustment (Film:"REJ B")(MAIS:"CHICO

REJ")(PREH:"REJ CD PYMNT") 

 

Reject Explanation 

01 No CHICO master 

02 CHICO record terminated 

03 CHICO record in suspense for other than cause 35, 69, 88 or 98 

04* CHICO record is interim widow 

05* Calculated AERO rate equals the rate already being paid 

07 Pre-AERO rate in PREH not equal to rate being paid on the checkwriting 

record 

11 No SSA offset in computed annuity but SSA benefit in pay status 

12 Due process 

13 New rate too small for SMI premium rate. 

14 CHICO record still in partial rate status. 

15 MBR indicates annuitant deceased 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 233 of 312 

 

19 Employee address is foreign (non-Canadian) - AERO wages may be 

erroneous 

20 Unhandled RAIL reject 

Special Handling Review Codes for AERO Adjustment (MAIS:"REV 1, 2,

3")(PREH:"SPEC HNDL CODE 1") 

 

Codes Explanation 

27# 

Based on the service months in EDM, an increase is due in the supplemental 

annuity, or the employee is now entitled to a supplemental annuity 

28# Disability freeze is terminated; AERO PIA may need to be adjusted 

29 LY 83 case due increase from first month 62 entire month; AERO paid increase 

from January of year age 63 

30 LY83 tier 1 needs to be adjusted from an earlier date. 

31* 

All or part of the PIA increase is due to earnings record corrections for years 

prior to last year, but the corrections do not produce a PIA increase of $1.00 

or more 

32# Tier 1 accrual effective date restricted to the SSA benefit date of entitlement 

33 Reduced Law year 83 annuitant over 62 on ABD 

34 Tier 1 accrual effective date restricted to either the effective date or the 

ending date of tier 1 work deductions. 

35 Tier 1 accrual effective date restricted to the month the formula switched from 

OM to RR. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 234 of 312 

 

36 Tier 1 accrual effective date is the ABD for a dually entitled spouse; the tier 2 

restored amount may need to be adjusted. 

37 Tier 1 accrual effective date restricted to the DRC effective date. 

38 

Tier 1 accrual effective date restricted to one of the following: 

• The date the SSA benefit offset changed for other than the COL, or 

• The date the SSA benefit offset terminated, or 

• The date of entitlement to a PSP, or 

• The date the PSP changed, or 

• The date the spouse became entitled to her own employee annuity 

40 

The PIA increase paid from January of the current year is payable from an 

earlier date (AERO G90 has one PIA); or in addition to the PIA increase paid 

from January of the current year, there is another recomp payable from an 

Codes Explanation 

earlier date (AERO G90 has 2 PIAs). An "earlier date" does not necessarily 

refer to January of the previous year. Please refer to RCM 8.1T 1,T PIA 

Determinations, for further instructions. Request appropriate recomps via 

G563. 

41 

The FAMC has increased; the annuity is currently reduced for the RRA 

maximum; the maximum should be re-tested with the new FAMC and any tier 

1 increase payable on the ABD. Not used after 2001. 

AERO Accrual Calculation Reject Codes for AERO Adjustment (MAIS:"T1 ACCRL

REJ")(PREH:"SPEC HNDL CODE 2: "A") 

 

Reject 

Codes Explanation 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 235 of 312

 

90# Not currently used 

91 Invalid ABD. 

92* 

Invalid accrual date, eg. no accrual payable because the increase is effective 

only from the current month (i.e., September 1st). 

93# Not currently used 

94* Accrual less than $1.00. 

95 

There are no tier 1 work deductions in force in the recurring monthly rate, but 

deductions were in force in the accrual period, or the tier 1 work deduction 

currently in force is a partial amount 

98 LAF C SS benefit ("A" benefit if employee; "B" benefit if spouse) 

99 

The annuitant has a tier 1 SSA benefit offset, but the entitlement date for the 

benefit (3205-SS-BENF-CURR-ENT-DT) is missing in PREH 

Appendix L - RAIL Mass Adjustment Reject and Review Codes 

This appendix explains the reject and review codes for the annual Retirement Adjustment 

to Include Lag (RAIL) mass adjustment operation. In the RAIL mass adjustment, there are 

two steps in the adjustment action: 1) the calculation of the new annuity rate and 2) the 

revision of the checkwriting records to show this new rate. In either step, a reject can 

occur. Calculation rejects are type "A" in item 45 of the microfilm, "CALC REJ" on MAIS 

and "REJ CD CALC" on the MAD screen of PREH. 

Checkwriting rejects are type "B" in item 45 of the microfilm, "CHICO REJ" on MAIS and 

"REJ CD PYMNT" on the MAD screen of PREH. 

Most reject and review codes are indications that further work must be done in the case. In 

this situation, DATAQ will show "RE" under the specific mass adjustment operation 

earmark code. Some reject and review codes do not cause the case to be earmarked for 

further handling by examiners. The DATAQ display in these instances will be "OK". The 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 236 of 312 

 

codes that do not require further examiner handling are identified with an asterisk (*) by 

the number. 

NOTE: Records in suspense, other than 35, 69, 88 or 98, during a mass adjustment are 

rejected with code 03 (PREH: 'REJ CD PAYMENT'). The earmark is only present on PREH, 

not DATAQ. Therefore, when doing a reinst/recert verify any earmarks on PREH, screen 

3250, and remove them if appropriate. 

An open earmark on PREH is to be cleared on a terminated record by completing 

'Earmarks Considered' for ROC awards or 'All COL's and AERO's Considered' for 

PC/manual awards and processing an OPO recert award. If the case must be forwarded to 

SIS to develop a possible payee, remove the earmark through the PREH correction facility. 

The definition of some codes has changed over the years. This appendix gives the 

current definition. Appendix N provides earlier definitions. The codes included in Appendix 

N are identified with ‘#’. 

Annuity calculation recurring rate rejects (Film:"REJ A")(MAIS:"CALC REJ")(PREH:"REJ

CD CALC") 

 

Code Explanation 

01 

Annuitant terminated for death – compute any accrued annuity due; if there is 

a survivor annuitant on the rolls, refer the case to SBD to adjust the survivor 

annuity 

02 Annuitant terminated for reason other than death 

03 SEARCH was not able to provide PIA or tier 2 amounts 

04 

Employee's post-1977 railroad earnings may also be erroneously posted as 

SS wages 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 237 of 312

 

05 OM formula currently paid or the OM was paid for a past period 

06 

Employee's Research record coded as LY83 half-age reduction or as 1981 

Amendment 60/30 

Code Explanation 

07 

One of the following applies: 1) temporary rate is being paid, 2) employee has 

non-entitlement months due to return to service, or 3) employee is disabled and 

has non-entitlement months due to excess earnings 

08 Gross VDB Zero 

09 DRC case with unreliable PIA or tier 1 calculation 

10 Annuity reduced for percentage legal process deduction 

11 Tier 1 reduced for WC or PDB 

12 Annuity waiver in force 

13 

Divorced spouse not coded as 1981 Amendment annuity, or spouse type of law 

year is not the same as the employee's. 

14 Spouse ABD before EE ABD or SP ABD not current or prior year 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 238 of 312

 

15 

Annuitant also entitled to other RR annuity. Make all necessary adjustments in 

both annuities. 

16 60/30 employee but EDM has less than 360 service months 

17 

Spouse in partial status-RASI final award will not reflect employee RAIL 

information 

18 

Employee occupational disability under age 60 on ABD but EDM has less than 

240 service months 

19 EDM has less than 120 service months 

20 Too many M/S months may be included in RAIL total months 

21 

Computed employee age reduction months negative or greater than the 

maximum allowable 

22 Employee coded as full lawyear 83 62/30 but also coded as being age reduced 

23 Spouse coded as lawyear 83 half age reduction 

24 Spouse of lawyear 83 disability employee but spouse tier 1 is not age reduced 

Code Explanation 

25 Computed spouse age reduction months do not equal age reduction months in 

the research record 

26 Spouse adjusted tier 2 less than current tier 2 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 239 of 312

 

27 Employee adjusted annuity rate less than current annuity rate 

28* Employee adjusted rate changed less than $1.00 

29 Increase in employee adjusted annuity rate seems too high 

30 Spouse adjusted annuity rate less than current annuity rate 

31* Spouse adjusted rate changed less than $1.00 

32 Increase in spouse adjusted annuity rate seems too high 

33 DRC only case, additional DRCs payable on ABD and RRA Max. reduction 

currently greater than zero 

34 RRA maximum cannot be tested because correct ABD PIA not available 

35 Calculated RRA max reduction greater than zero and adjustment cannot be 

made 

36 Error in computed tier 2 VDB reduction 

37 Decrease in total service months resulting in tier 2 decrease 

38 Employee adjusted tier 2 less than current tier 2 

39 Increase in employee adjusted tier 2 seems too high 

40 Increase in spouse adjusted tier 2 seems too high 

41 RRA max no longer applies and increase in employee adjusted tier 2 seems 

too high 

42 RRA max no longer applies and increase in spouse adjusted tier 2 seems too 

high 

45 Employee ABD not current or prior year. 

46 Divorced spouse previously entitled to spouse annuity but previous ABD not in 

record 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 240 of 312

 

Code Explanation 

47 Employee adjusted annuity rate less than zero 

48 Reduced law year 83 spouse under 62 but research record code indicates 

spouse has received age 62 Recalc. 

49 Employee adjusted tier 1 less than current tier 1 

50 Employee adjusted tier 1 less than current tier 1 and earnings record has 

compensation/wage duplication 

51 Spouse adjusted tier 1 less than current tier 1 

52 Spouse has PSP and adjusted net tier 1 greater than zero 

53 Calculated number of DRCs negative or less than current number of DRCs. 

54 Service months credited after ABD used in tier 2 calculation 

55 Difference between total service months with M/S and total service months 

without M/S is more than total M/S months in research record 

56 

Research record shows M/S used as comp but M/S months are not included in 

current total service months - new total service months include M/S and 

therefore may be incorrect 

58 Employee has multiple SSN's and wage record may be incorrect 

59 Multiple spouses with more than one non-divorced spouse. 

60 Excessive increase in years of service 

61 Rate increase too large 

62 EE alone RRA maximum applies 

63 Spouse based on non-disabled child - child has attained age 18 

64 Error in MS dates in the record 

65 Error in work deduction data in the record 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 241 of 312 

 

66 More than 3 service months reported after the ABD - PEMS will investigate for 

return to RR service; adjust the case based on the revised G90 

68 Erroneous work deduction DRCs in the record 

Code Explanation 

69 Open RAIL reject from previous year 

70 BNSF report for lag year includes compensation but no reported service 

months. 

71 Disability annuity based on 5 years of service after 1995; employee not insured 

for tier 1 and too young for tier 2 

72 Tier 2 or supplemental annuity is still reduced for the RRA maximum 

88* No change in rate 

99 Spouse rejected because employee rejected 

 

Annuity calculations tier 1 rejects(tier 2 adjusted)(MAIS:"Tier 1 REJ")(PREH:"SPEC

HNDL CODE 2: "T") 

 

Code Explanation 

03 RAIL PIA 1 eligibility year different from eligibility year on research record 

04 Research record indicates current PIA 1 is AIME but RAIL PIA 1 is not AIME 

05 Research record indicates current PIA 1 is AMW or AIME but RAIL PIA 1 is 

TRANS 

06 Adjusted tier 1 is less than current tier 1 and no wage record was received 

from SSA for RAIL 

07 PIA 1 must be modified for employee NCSP 

09 Increase in employee adjusted tier 1 seems too high 

10* Spouse previous ABD needed to calculate tier 1 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 242 of 312 

 

11* Reduced law year 83 spouse under 62 but employee over 62 - no PIA 

available for spouse tier 1 calculation 

12 Spouse adjusted gross tier 1 is zero 

13 Spouse has tier 1 work deduction which cannot be updated because the 

spouse is suspended and/or tier 1 is not yet adjusted for the last COL. 

14 Increase in spouse adjusted tier 1 seems to high 

Code Explanation 

16 EE has post 1956 M/S but RAIL PIA does not reflect deemed M/S credits. 

89* No change in PIA 1 

 

Accrual rejects (MAIS:"T1 ACCRUAL REJ","T2 ACCRL REJ")(PREH:Tier 1 accrual reject 

- "SPEC HNDL CODE 2:"A"; Tier 2 accrual reject - "SPEC HNDL CODE 3:"A")): 

 

Code Explanation 

01 Accrual effective date invalid (future date or impossible date) 

02 Research record information indicates there is an error in the current tier 

amount 

03 Tier I work deductions currently in force 

04 Unhandled COL reject 

05* Accrual less than $1.00 

 

Review codes (MAIS:"REV 1, 2, 3")(PREH:"SPEC HNDL CODE 1") 

 

Code Explanation 

20 Tier 1 adjusted for recomp PIA 1 - additional adjustment due from ABD or age

62 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 243 of 312

 

21 Supplemental annuity being paid but EDM shows less than 25 years of service 

22 Spouse due tier 1 accrual for months before child attained 16 

23 RAIL rate must be adjusted to include prior service 

24 Employee paid as regular reduced age but lag provides 30 YOS- employee 

entitled to full 62/30 annuity 

25# DRC only adjustment in RAIL; RRA maximum reduction is in force and lag 

compensation changes the FAMC. Re-test the RRA max 

26 Increase in service months will result in supplemental annuity entitlement or 

higher supp annuity amount 

Code Explanation 

27 

ABD year DRCs accrued based on age were included in tier 1 from the date the 

work deduction DRCs are payable. The age-based DRCs are also payable 

from an earlier date; adjust tier 1 for the earlier months 

28 

Tier 1 adjusted from DRC effective date - additional adjustment needed from 

ABD for PIA increase 

29 

Tier 1 adjusted for recomp PIA 1 - additional adjustment needed for DRC's from 

ABD or month 70 

30 

Tier 1 adjusted for recomp PIA 1 - additional adjustment needed for prior 

months for law year 83 age 62 recalc 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 244 of 312

 

31 

Employee tier 1 adjusted from SSA date of entitlement - additional adjustment 

due for prior months 

32 

Reduced law year 83 tier 1 adjusted for age 62 recalc and adjustment also 

needed from ABD 

33# 

Disabled employee’s disability freeze was terminated; freeze not considered in 

RAIL PIA; check for possible impact of terminated freeze 

34 

Spouse tier 1 adjusted from SSA date of entitlement or PSP date of entitlement 

or the date a change was made in either the PSP or the SSA benefit (other 

than the SSA COL) - additional adjustment due for prior months 

35# 

The accrual effective date was restricted to a) the month after disability work 

deductions were withheld or b) the month after the employee stopped work 

after returning to RR service 

36 

Spouse tier 2 adjusted from employee VDB effective date - additional adjustment 

needed from ABD up to VDB date 

37 

Spouse tier 1 adjusted for Recomp PIA 1 - additional adjustment needed for 

prior months for law year 83 age 62 Recalc 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 245 of 312

 

38 

Employee tier 2 adjusted from VDB effective date - additional adjustment 

needed from ABD up to VDB date 

39 No wage record received from SSA 

40 

No SSA effective date on record - additional accrual due if SS effective date is 

later than RAIL tier 1 accrual date 

Code Explanation 

41 

No VDB effective date - additional accrual due if VDB effective date later than 

ABD 

42 

No DRCs were included on initial award - ABD rate should be adjusted for 

DRCs. 

43 RRA max does not apply - adjust supplemental annuity. 

44 

Annuitant had tier 2 work deductions for unknown period after ABD - half of tier 

2 accrual withheld. 

45 

Law year 83 annuitant adjusted from December - pre-COL SS benefit amount 

needed to adjust to ABD 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 246 of 312 

 

46 

The accrual effective date was restricted to January 1, 2002 because the 

employee and/or spouse annuity was reduced for the RRA maximum before 

2002 or the annuity should be reduced for the RRA maximum for months prior 

to 2002. 

 

Checkwriting Reject Codes (Film:"REJ B")(MAIS:"CHICO REJ")(PREH:"REJ CD 

PYMNT") 

 

Code Explanation 

01 No CHICO record for record received from Research 

02 Terminated Record - Research Record not terminated 

03 Suspended Record 

04* Interim widow 

05* RAIL adjustment already made manually 

07 CHICO and Research pre-adjustment check rates do not match 

09 Manual voucher in RAIL voucher month 

11 LAF E SS benefit being paid - tier 1 computed without SS offset 

13 Monthly rate exceeds $3500.00 

14 Case still in partial status 

Code Explanation 

17 RRA Maximum applies- spouse rejected because employee rejected 

Appendix M - SALSA Mass Adjustment Reject Codes 

This appendix explains the reject and review codes for the annual SALSA mass adjustment 

operation. 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 247 of 312 

 

Code Explanation 

01 No SALSA is payable. The employee received a separation allowance 

payment but the entire amount was used to provide retirement service credits. 

02 Employee terminated 

03 Employee not paid final 

04 SEARCH cannot calculate SALSA due to an error in the employer report. 

05 Employee suspended 

06 SALSA is less than $1.00 

07 The current SALSA calculated by SEARCH is less than a previous SALSA 

payment issued to the employee 

08 SEARCH cannot calculate SALSA; SALSA previously paid manually or 

mechanically 

09 Mechanical SALSA rejected to prevent duplication of a payment made 

manually in the same month. 

Appendix N - Previous Mass Adjustment Reject/Review Definitions 

Introduction 

The definition of some mass adjustment reject and review codes has changed over the 

years. This appendix gives previous definitions for the codes that have changed. These 

codes are earmarked with ‘#’ in Appendices B (COLA), K (AERO) and L (RAIL). 

Previous COLA definitions 

The following definitions were previously used for COLA codes: 

 

Code Type Used Definition 

01 Retirement reject Before 2002 Joint and survivor option 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 248 of 312

 

02 Retirement review Before 1996 

Spouse has PSP that must be policed; 

tier 1 COL not paid 

03 Retirement reject Before 1995 Previous COL reject not yet handled 

03 Retirement review Before 1997 Spouse tier 2 takeback code missing 

04 Retirement review Before 1997 Invalid tier 2 takeback amount 

07 Retirement reject Before 2002 RR formula grandfather clause applies 

08 Retirement reject Before 2002 OM formula grandfather clause applies 

11 Retirement reject Before 2002 

1937 act employee has age reduced 

disability annuity 

12 Retirement reject Before 2002 

MBR received from SSA but tier 1 no

currently reduced for SSA 

15 Retirement reject Before 1995 

Increase in EE LAF C SS benefits 

causes RR decrease more than $30.00 

16 CHICO reject 1993 

MBR received from SSA but no tier 1 

SS offset; SSA and RRB DOBs 

discrepant but last name matches 

 1994-1997 Previous unhandled COL reject 

18 Retirement review Before 1997 Invalid EE tier 2 takeback amount 

19 Survivor reject Before 1994 Previous unhandled COL reject 

21 Retirement review Before 1997 

Tier 1 not payable (felony, alien 

suspension, deportation, termination) 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 249 of 312

 

22 Retirement reject Before 1990 EE increased by too high a percentage 

27 Retirement reject Before 1994 

Discrepant work deduction information 

in MBF 

Code Type Used Definition 

27 Retirement review Before 1990 Increase in LAF C SS benefits causes 

RR decrease less than $30.00 

31 MBR review Before 1994 MBR indicates partial benefit rate 

38 MBR reject Before 1994 

SS benefit amount from SSA includes 

survivor benefit on deceased RR 

employee 

47 Retirement reject Before 1991 

Divorced spouse not 1981 Amendment 

case 

 1991 Spouse based on child and either child 

over 16 and tier 1 not terminated or 

child over 18 and tier 2 not terminated 

49 Retirement reject Before 1991 

Increase in spouse LAF C SS benefits 

causes RR decrease more than $30.00 

53 Retirement reject Before 1991 Spouse increased by too high a 

percentage 

56 Survivor reject Before 1990 COL rate increases by too high a 

percentage 

57 Survivor reject Before 1990 COL rate decreased 

58 Survivor reject Before 1990 COL rate increased by too high an 

amount 

59 Retirement reject Before 1992 Spouse has PSP that does not exceed 

tier 1; PSP must be policed 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 250 of 312 

 

60 Survivor reject Before 1990 Increase in LAF C SS benefits causes 

RR decrease more than $30.00 

61 Survivor review Before 1997 Tier 1 not payable (felony, alien 

suspension, deportation, termination) 

65 Survivor review Before 1990 Increase in LAF C SS benefits causes 

RR decrease less than $30.00 

67 Survivor reject Before 1992 Widow has PSP that does not exceed 

tier 1; PSP must be policed 

Code Type Used Definition 

68 Survivor reject Before 1992 

Remarried or divorced widow has tier 2 

71 Survivor review Before 1996 Widow has PSP that must be policed; 

tier 1 COL not paid 

82 Retirement reject Before 1992 Divorced SP in OM family 

Previous AERO definitions 

The following definitions were previously used for AERO codes: 

 

Code Type Used Definition 

27 Review Before 1992 

Review employee’s other RR annuity 

for change in tier 1 offset 

28 Review Before 1997 

All or part of the PIA increase is due to 

earnings record corrections for years 

prior to last year. The increase has 

been paid only from January of the 

current year. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 251 of 312 

 

32 Review Before 1994 

Tier 1 accrual restricted to 1)SSA DOE 

or 2) previous December because of a 

COLA reject 

71 Reject Before 1997 PIA decrease for unknown reason 

90 Accrual reject Before 1990 

SSA benefit effective date within the 

accrual period 

93 Accrual reject Before 1991 Accrual amount seems excessive 

Previous RAIL definitions 

The following definitions were previously used for RAIL codes: 

 

Code Type Used Definition 

25 Review Before 1995 

More than 3 service months reported 

after the ABD; RAIL did not use these 

months. Investigate for return to RR 

service 

33 Review 1989 

Employee accrual effective date 

restricted to December 1988 due to 

military service in PL100-647 period 

35 Review 1989 

Spouse accrual effective date 

restricted to December 1988 due to 

employee’s military service in PL100- 

647 period 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 252 of 312 

 

Appendix O - WIMA Mass Adjustment Reject Codes/ 

In April and June of 2002, the “widow(er)’s initial minimum amount” was tested in a mass 

adjustment for aged and disabled widow(er)s, young mothers and young fathers paid under 

the 1981 amendments. The following reject codes were used in the mass adjustments. 

Calculation reject codes: 

 

Code Explanations 

01 The annuity was suspended before January 2002, and the reason for the 

suspension was something other than excess earnings or small 

overpayment recovery, or 

The annuity was suspended for excess earnings and either the 

suspension was effective before January 2001 or there is no net annuity 

rate in PREH 

02 There is an unhandled COLA reject in the case. 

03 The annuitant has a gross tier 2, but the deceased employee’s tier 2 on 

the OBD is zero. 

04 DIB age reduction rules apply, the annuitant is over 65, and there is no 

OBD tier 1 information in PREH. 

05 The annuitant’s OBD is after November 1983, the deceased employee’s 

ABD was before 1984, and there is no employee actual or fictional 

takeback amount in PREH. 

06 A “D” case and he annuitant’s OBD is after November 1983, the 

employee died before 1984, and there is no employee actual or fictional 

takeback amount in PREH. 

Code Explanations 

07 The annuitant’s gross tier 2 is less than 50% of the employee’s tier 2 on 

the OBD and the gross tier 2 is not restricted by the family maximum. 

08 The current tier 1 is reduced for age or the RIB limit but the OBD tier 1 is 

not reduced. 

09 The OBD tier 1 is reduced for age or the RIB limit but the current tier 1 is 

not reduced. There is no ARF in the case, and the DIB age reduction 

rules do not apply. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 253 of 312

 

10 The cases involves both the DIB age reduction rules and an ARF. 

11 The annuitant’s OBD is after November 1983 and PREH does not contain 

any takeback information. 

12 The WIMA increase amount is more than 50% of the employee’s tier 2 on 

the OBD. 

13 The WIMA tier 1 is greater than the current tier 1 before reductions for 

other benefits. 

14 The calculated new rate is less than zero. 

15 The calculated new rate is less than the current rate. 

16 The calculated new rate is higher than the current rate by more than the 

WIMA increase amount. 

17 The number of months the widow(er) is under FRA on the OBD were 

calculated and one of the following is true: 

• The months calculated are zero but PREH has age reduction months for 

either tier 1 or tier 2 

• The months calculated are greater than zero but there are no months in 

PREH and there is no ARF in the case. 

• The months calculated do not equal the months in PREH and there is no 

ARF in the case. 

 

18 The age reduction factor does not correspond to the number of age 

reduction months. 

19 The OBD information in PREH does not reflect the CPI correction but a 

backdated tier 1 was not computed. 

20 PREH does not contain an OBD gross tier 1, and a backdated gross tier 1 

could not be calculated. 

21 Tier 1 was restricted by the family maximum on the OBD and the correct 

WIMA tier 1 could not be calculated. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 254 of 312 

 

22 The widow(er)s’ tier 1 is based on the ALT PIA and the statutory share is 

adjusted for the family maximum; the correct WIMA tier 1 could not be 

calculated. 

23 The widow(er)s’ tier 1 is not based on the ALT PIA or the special minimum 

PIA and the statutory share is adjusted for the family maximum; the correct 

WIMA tier 1 could not be calculated. 

Code Explanations 

24 PREH does not contain OBD age/RIB adjusted tier 1 information, and a 

backdated age/RIB adjusted tier 1 could not be calculated. 

25 The calculated gross WIMA tier 2 is greater than the deceased employee’s 

tier 2 on the OBD. 

26 A WIMA tier 2 could not be calculated. 

27 The necessary age reduction could not be calculated for the WIMA tier 2. 

28 The WIMA tier 2 takeback amount could not be determined. 

29 There was an error in the calculation of the WIMA tier 2. 

30 The takeback guaranty should be applied to the WIMA tier 2 but the net 

WIMA tier 2 is not $10.00. 

31 The WIMA is higher than the current rate but the case is in suspense. 

32 The widow(er)s’ tier 1 is based on the special minimum PIA and the 

statutory share is adjusted for the family maximum; the correct WIMA tier 1 

could not be calculated. 

33 The annuitant was terminated after February 2002 and the WIMA is higher 

than the last rate paid. 

34 Tier 1 is restricted by the family maximum but the annuitant’s current share 

of the maximum is not correct based on the number of people in the family 

group. 

35 The annuitant’s gross tier 2 amount is more than 50% of the deceased 

employee’s tier 2 on the OBD. 

Checkwriting reject: 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 255 of 312 

 

Code Explanation 

01 The annuity was not found on the checkwriting master. 

02 The annuity is terminated. 

03 The annuity is suspended. 

04 The annuitant is an interim widow. 

05 The new rate equals the rate already being paid. 

07 The pre-adjustment rate in PREH does not equal the rate being paid. 

25 The RR annuity is in pay status but the LAF E SS benefit is terminated 

with a death code. 

Review codes: 

 

Code Explanation 

01 There are multiple widow’s on the rolls; verify the family group and the 

computation of the WIMA tier 1. 

Code Explanation 

02 The accrual was restricted to the date the family group changed. 

Compute and pay a WIMA accrual due from February up to the month the 

family group changed. 

Appendix P - RRSIA RRA Maximum Mass Adjustment 

In May 2002, a mass adjustment was performed to remove RRA maximum reductions from 

tier 2 and supplemental annuities in accordance with the Railroad Retirement and 

Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001. Reductions for the maximum were removed effective 

with annuities payable for January 2002 and later. The reject and review cause codes 

used in the operation are provided below. 

Calculation Reject Codes: 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 256 of 312

 

Code Explanation 

01 Employee receives a 1974 Act formula annuity. 

02 A prior COLA reject has not yet been handled. 

03 

A takeback should apply to the employee’s tier 2 but there is no takeback 

amount in PREH. 

04 The employee’s rate is reduced for a percentage legal process deduction. 

05 The annuity is paid under the OM formula. 

06 

The annuity is terminated; the termination effective date is after January 

2002. OP should take the following actions: 

• RBD should compute and pay any accrued annuity due prior to the 

termination effective date 

• RBD should forward the case to SBD to determine any impact on 

survivor benefits 

• SBD should re-test the spouse minimum using the increased spouse tier 

2 where appropriate 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 257 of 312

 

07 The annuity is suspended. 

08 There is an error in the current employee tier 2. 

Code Explanation 

09 

The employee’s tier 2 VDB reduction cannot be calculated because the gross 

VDB is not in PREH. 

10 

The employee’s calculated tier 2 after the VDB reduction does not equal the 

tier 2 after VDB reduction in PREH. 

12 The employee’s adjusted tier 2 is less than the current tier 2. 

13 The increase in the employee’s adjusted tier 2 is too high. 

14 The employee’s adjusted annuity rate is less than zero. 

15 The employee’s adjusted annuity rate is less than the current rate. 

16 

The increase in the employee’s adjusted annuity rate does not equal the 

increase in tier 2. 

17 

The employee’s adjusted tier 2 work deduction amount is less than the 

current tier 2 work deduction amount. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 258 of 312

 

18 

The employee tier 2 was reduced for the RRA maximum but the 

supplemental annuity is not reduced. 

19 

The age reduction months calculated for the employee’s tier 2 do not equal 

the age reduction months in PREH. 

30 

The supplemental annuity attainment code in PREH indicates the employee 

does not have a RR pension, but there is pension information in PREH. 

31 

There is no RR pension information in PREH but the employee worked for a 

RR that pays a pension for which the supplemental annuity needs to be 

reduced. 

32 

The supplemental annuity attainment code in PREH indicates the employee 

has a RR pension, but there is no pension information in PREH. 

33 

The adjusted supplemental annuity is less than the current supplemental 

annuity. 

34 The increase in the adjusted supplemental annuity is too high. 

35 

The adjusted supplemental annuity work deduction amount is less than the 

current supplemental annuity work deduction amount. 

Code Explanation 

50 A takeback should apply to the spouse’s tier 2 but there is no takeback 

amount in PREH. 

51 The spouse record contains a total takeback amount, but the 1983 and 1984 

takeback reduction amounts are zero. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 259 of 312

 

52 The spouse’s ABD is before 1984 and there is an error in the current tier 2 

amount. 

53 The spouse’s ABD is after 1983 and there is an error in the current tier 2 

amount. 

54 The spouse’s gross tier 2 is more than 45% of the employee’s tier 2 after 

VDB reduction. 

56 The pre-1984 tier 2 COL calculated for the spouse is not equal to the COL 

amount in PREH. 

57 The spouse tier 2 age reduction amount is missing in PREH. 

58 The spouse tier 2 dual restoration effective date is not in PREH. 

59 The spouse 1984 tier 2 COL increase cannot be calculated because the dual 

restoration effective date is after November 1986. 

60 The spouse’s adjusted tier 2 is less than the current tier 2. 

61 The increase in the spouse’s adjusted tier 2 is too high. 

62 The spouse’s adjusted annuity rate is less than zero. 

63 The spouse’s adjusted annuity rate is less than the current rate. 

64 The increase in the spouse’s adjusted annuity rate is too high. 

65 The spouse’s adjusted tier 2 work deduction amount is less than the current 

tier 2 work deduction amount. 

66 The spouse’s gross tier 2 amount is not in PREH. 

67 The age reduction months calculated for the spouse tier 2 do not equal the 

age reduction months in PREH. 

Checkwriting rejects: 

Explanation 

01 There is no record on the checkwriting master for the annuitant. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 260 of 312

 

02 The checkwriting master record is terminated. 

03 The checkwriting master record is suspended. 

04 The spouse is an interim widow. 

05 The calculated new annuity rate equals the rate the annuitant is currently 

being paid. 

07 The current annuity rate in PREH does not equal the current annuity rate on 

the checkwriting master. 

13 The adjusted annuity rate is more than $3,500.00. 

22 The current supplemental annuity in PREH does not equal the current 

supplemental annuity on the checkwriting master. 

Accrual reject codes: 

Explanation 

01 The regular annuity accrual effective date cannot be determined. 

02 The supplemental annuity accrual effective date cannot be determined. 

Review codes: 

Explanation 

01 

The spouse gross tier 2 is less than 45% of the employee’s tier 2 after VDB 

reduction. 

02 

The regular annuity accrual date was restricted because of VDB entitlement, 

LPE work deductions or dual annuity entitlement; additional accrual is due 

for months prior to this date. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 261 of 312

 

03 

The supplemental annuity accrual date was restricted because of LPE work 

deductions; additional accrual is due for months prior to this date. 

Appendix Q - RESCUE FAQs 

Q. What causes RESCUE to adjust an annuity? 

A. Any of three events will cause RESCUE to evaluate the need to adjust an annuity 

(RCM6.8.89): 

• A change in railroad service, railroad earnings (including miscellaneous compensation 

and separation/severance payments), or social security wages, or 

• Delayed retirement credits (DRCs) are earned in the ABD year but cannot be included 

in tier 1 until the following January or the month the employee attains age 70, or 

• ABD year earnings increase the PIA 1 of a RRSIA 60/30 annuity effective with 

January of the year following the year the employee attains age 62. Q. When does 

RESCUE process annuity adjustments? 

A. RESCUE runs four times a year, about every 3 months though not necessarily at the 

end of standard calendar quarters. RESCUE sends annuity adjustments to ROC the last 

week of the month, and the awards are vouchered the first of the following month. Q. 

What types of annuities does RESCUE adjust? 

A. RESCUE will adjust all types of employee and spouse annuities. RESCUE does not 

adjust survivor annuities. If a change in service and/or earnings is detected for a survivor 

annuity, RESCUE refers the case to SBD to adjust. Q. Does RESCUE decrease annuity 

rates? 

A. RESCUE only pays annuity increases. If RESCUE’s evaluation of a case reveals 

that the annuity needs to be decreased, the case is referred for RBD to determine the 

cause of the decrease and adjudicate any overpayment. If the decrease is the result of 

a record error in EDM or PREH, RBD will resolve the error and adjust the case. Q. How 

does RESCUE handle terminated cases? 

A. RESCUE computes accrued annuities due in terminated cases. The accrued annuity is 

posted to PREH. If the employee is deceased, SBD will determine payees for the accrual. 

If the employee is alive, RBD will issue the accrued annuity.(RCM6.8.92) Q. 

How can I determine if RESCUE considered a case? 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 262 of 312 

 

A. Three steps determine if a case was considered by RESCUE (RCM6.8.97): 

• Go to PREH and look for a check record and/or an OPO record with a source of 

RESCUR or a voucher number of 575 

• Go to STAR and look for a referral with unit code RUE. Field representatives should 

check FieldStar. A referral is generated if RESCUE rejects the case. 

• Go to the RESCUE NAN folder on the SHARE server of the USRRB domain 

(\\Share\RESCUE NAT N)T . A case will appear in this folder if the case was 

considered in the RESCUE operation, but there was no change in the annuity rate. 

Q. How do I determine the problem in a case if I find a RESCUE referral in STAR? 

A. Descriptions of the RESCUE referral codes can be found in RCM6.8.98. If further 

information is needed, an email can be sent to the general RBD mailbox. Q. Where can 

I find information about a RESCUE annuity adjustment? 

A. Information about RESCUE awards is provided in several places: 

• The ROC award (RCM6.8.95) and the award letter (RCM6.8.96) can be viewed in 

Imaging. 

• The results of the adjustment action can be viewed in PREH. Look for check and 

OPO records with the source code RESCUR and voucher number 575. There is no

mass adjustment screen (MAD) for RESCUE adjustments. Q. How is the RESCUE 

accrual computed? 

A. ROC computes the accrual for months beginning with January 1, 1995 in the normal 

manner. ROC calculates all the necessary rate breaks and extracts previous payment 

history from PREH. For months before 1995, RESCUE computes the accrual using special 

formulas authorized by the Board to facilitate automated adjustments by RESCUE 

(RCM6.8.94). RESCUE adds the accrual computed using the special formulas to the 

accrual ROC computes in the normal manner. Information is displayed on ROC awards for 

both the normal accrual computation and the special formula amounts (RCM6.8.95). 

Exhibits 

Exhibit 2 - T-13 Employee AERO Notice 

T-13(10-99) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 263 of 312 

 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 

 

Date: 

 

Office of Programs 

Operations RRB Claim Number 

 A 

 Visit Our Web Site at www.rrb.gov 

An increase in your railroad retirement annuity is payable. Your earnings through ___ 

are now available to include in the tier 1 portion of your annuity. Your October 1, 20__ 

payment is $____. The rate shown includes any supplemental annuity or social security 

benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). We are withholding $_____ in 

Federal income taxes from your monthly payment. If a Medicare insurance premium was 

deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days. If you 

have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. 

The increase in your annuity is effective _____. You will receive a payment for $____ 

within the next ten days. This is the total increase through August minus Federal income 

taxes of $____. We will deposit this payment in your checking or savings account if you 

are in the direct deposit program. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations 

 

 

The final paragraph may vary. If the entire accrual is withheld for Federal income taxes, the 

final paragraph reads: 

The increase in your annuity is effective ______. The total increase through August is 

$____. We withheld $____ in Federal income taxes from this payment. 

If the accrual is rejected, the final paragraph reads: 

We will send any back payments for months before September at a later date. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 264 of 312 

 

Exhibit 3 - T-14 Spouse AERO Notice 

T-14(10-99) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 

 

Date: 

 

Office of Programs 

Operations RRB Claim Number 

 MA 

 Visit Our Web Site at www.rrb.gov 

An increase in your railroad retirement annuity is payable. An adjustment in the tier 1 

portion of the employee's annuity results in an increase in your tier 1 amount. Your 

October 1, 20__ payment is $____. The rate shown includes any social security benefit 

paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). We are withholding $____ in Federal 

income taxes from your monthly payment. If a Medicare insurance premium was deducted 

from you last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days. If you 

have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. 

The increase in your annuity is effective _____. You will receive a payment for $____ 

within the next ten days. This is the total increase through August minus Federal income 

taxes of $____. We will deposit this payment in your checking or savings account if you 

are in the direct deposit program. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations 

 

 

The final paragraph may vary. If the entire accrual is withheld for Federal income taxes, the 

final paragraph reads: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 265 of 312 

 

The increase in your annuity is effective _____. The total increase through August is 

$____. We withheld $____ in Federal income taxes from this payment. 

If the accrual is rejected, the final paragraph reads: 

We will send any back payments for months before September at a later date. 

Exhibit 4 - T-11 Employee RAIL Notice 

1P the lag year is shown; eg. for the 2005 RAIL, the lag year is 2004 P 

T-11(7-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 

 

Date: 

 

Office of Programs RRB Claim Number 

Operations A 

 Always Use these Letters and

Numbers When Writing Us 

 Visit our Web site at www.rrb.gov 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P 

service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service P 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. 

The wages you earned in non-railroad employment through __ are included in the 

calculation of your annuity. 

Your July 1, __ payment is $___. This rate includes any supplemental annuity or social 

security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). We are withholding $____ 

in Federal income taxes from your monthly payment. If a Medicare insurance premium 

was deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 266 of 312 

 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days. If you 

have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. 

The increase in your annuity is payable for months before June ___. You will receive a 

payment for $___ within the next ten days. This is the total increase through May minus 

Federal income taxes of $___. We will deposit this payment in your checking or savings 

account if you are in the direct deposit program. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations 

 

 

The first paragraph will vary. If the employee is adjusted only to add delayed 

retirement credits, the first paragraph reads: 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. Additional credits are payable 

in the tier 1 portion of your annuity. You earned one credit for each month in 1P P before 

your annuity began during which you were between ages 65 and 70. 

If the employee is adjusted to add lag RR service and delayed retirement credits, 

the first paragraph reads: 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P P 

service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. Additional credits are also payable in the 

tier 1 portion of your annuity. You earned one credit for each month in 1P before your P 

annuity began during which you were between ages 65 and 70. 

If the employee is adjusted to add lag RR service and to perform the lawyear 83 

age 62 recalculations (used prior to 2002), the first paragraph reads: 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P

P service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. We also increased the tier 1 portion of your 

annuity from the first full month you were age 62. You will receive future tier 1 cost-ofliving increases as they become payable. 

If the employee receives an age annuity based on 30 years of service (used 

beginning in 2002), the following paragraph is included: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 267 of 312 

 

We adjusted your tier 2 for your earnings in (ABD year shown). Your (ABD year shown) 

earnings cannot be included in your tier 1 until the year after you attain age 62. We will 

adjust your tier 1 automatically when you become eligible. 

If Federal income taxes are not withheld from the monthly payment, the middle 

paragraph reads: 

Your July 1, ____ payment is $_____. This rate includes any supplemental annuity or 

social security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). If a Medicare 

insurance premium was deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that 

deduction. 

The final paragraph may vary. If the accrual is withheld for Federal income taxes, 

the final paragraph reads: 

The increase in your annuity is payable for months before June __. The total increase 

through May is $___. We withheld $___ in Federal income taxes from this payment. 

If the accrual is rejected, the final paragraph reads: 

We will send any back payments for months before June at a later date. 

Exhibit 4a - T-11a Employee RAIL Notice 

1P the lag year is shown; eg., for the 1999 RAIL, 1998 was the lag year P 

T-11a (7-99) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 N. Rush St. 

 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

 

 

Office of Programs RRB Claim Number 

Operations A 

 Always Use These Letters And Numbers 

When Writing Us 

 Visit our Web site at www.rrb.gov 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 268 of 312 

 

 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P P 

service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. 

The wages your earned in non-railroad employment through __ are included in the 

calculation of your annuity. 

Your July 1, __ payment is $__. This rate includes any supplemental annuity or social 

security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). We are withholding $___ in 

Federal income taxes from your monthly payment. If a Medicare insurance premium was 

deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days. If you 

have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. 

The total benefits payable to you and your spouse are limited by the maximum provision 

of the Railroad Retirement Act. This provision limits family benefits to a ceiling based on 

your earnings in the ten years before your annuity began. Because of the benefit 

ceiling, the increase in your annuity causes a decrease in your spouse's annuity. 

The adjustment in your annuity and your spouse's annuity is effective for months before 

June __. The total decrease in your spouse's benefits through May is $__. We recovered 

this amount from the increase payable to you for those months. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations 

 

 

The first paragraph may vary. If the employee is adjusted to add lag RR service and 

delayed retirement credits, the first paragraph reads: 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P

P service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. Additional credits are also payable in the 

1 P the lag year is shown; eg., for the 1999 RAIL, 1998 was the lag year P 

T-11b(7-98) 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 269 of 312 

 

tier 1 portion of your annuity. You earned one credit for each month in 1P before your P 

annuity began during which you were between ages 65 and 70. 

If the employee is adjusted to add lag RR service and to perform the lawyear 83 age 62 

recalculations, the first paragraph reads: 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P P 

service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. We also increased the tier 1 portion of your 

annuity from the first full month you were age 62. You will receive future tier 1 cost-ofliving increases as they become payable. 

If Federal income taxes are not withheld from the monthly payment, the middle paragraph 

reads: 

Your July 1, ____ payment is $_____. This rate includes any supplemental annuity or 

social security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). If a Medicare 

insurance premium was deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that 

deduction. 

If the entire accrual was not needed to recover the spouse's overpayment, an additional 

paragraph will close the letter. If the net accrual is withheld for Federal income taxes, the 

closing paragraph reads: 

The balance of your increase through May is $___. We withheld $__ in Federal income 

taxes from this payment. 

If the net accrual is not withheld for Federal income taxes, the closing paragraph reads: 

You will receive a payment for $___ within the next ten days. This is the balance of your 

increase through May minus Federal income taxes of $__. We will deposit this payment in 

your checking or savings account if you are in the direct deposit program. 

Exhibit 4b - T-11b Employee RAIL Notice 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

844 N. Rush St. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 270 of 312 

 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 

 

Date: 

 

Office of Programs RRB Claim Number 

Operations A 

 Always Use These Letters and 

Numbers When Writing Us 

 Visit our Web site at www.rrb.gov 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P

P service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. 

The wages you earned in non-railroad employment through __ are included in the 

calculation of your annuity. 

Your July 1, __ payment is $___. This rate includes any supplemental annuity or social 

security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). We are withholding $__ in 

Federal income taxes from your monthly payment. If a Medicare insurance premium 

was deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days. If you 

have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. 

The total benefits payable to you and your spouse are limited by the maximum provision 

of the Railroad Retirement Act. This provision limits family benefits to a ceiling based on 

your earnings in the ten years before your annuity began. 

The adjustment in your annuity and your spouse's annuity is effective for months before 

June __. Through May your spouse received $__ which is no longer payable because of 

the maximum provision. We recovered this amount from the increase payable to you 

through May. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations 

 

 

The first paragraph may vary. If the employee is adjusted to add lag RR service and 

delayed retirement credits, the first paragraph reads: 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 271 of 312

 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P P 

service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. Additional credits are also payable in the 

tier 1 portion of your annuity. You earned one credit for each month in 1P before your P 

annuity began during which you were between ages 65 and 70. 

If the employee is adjusted to add lag RR service and to perform the law year 83 age 62 

recalculations, the first paragraph reads: 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation you earned through 1P are now included in your annuity. The number of P 

1P P 

service months used in your annuity is __; this is the number of creditable service 

months prior to your annuity beginning date. We also increased the tier 1 portion of your 

annuity from the first full month you were age 62. You will receive future tier 1 cost-ofliving increases as they become payable. 

If Federal income taxes are not withheld from the monthly payment, the middle paragraph 

reads: 

Your July 1, ____ payment is $_____. This rate includes any supplemental annuity or 

social security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). If a Medicare 

insurance premium was deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that 

deduction. 

If the entire accrual was not needed to recover the spouse's overpayment, an additional 

paragraph will close the letter. If the net accrual is withheld for Federal income taxes, the 

closing paragraph reads: 

The balance of your increase through May is $___. We withheld $__ in Federal income 

taxes from this payment. 

If the net accrual is not withheld for Federal income taxes, the closing paragraph reads: 

You will receive a payment for $__ within the next ten days. This is the balance of your

increase through May minus Federal income taxes of $ ___. We will deposit this payment 

in your checking or savings account if you are in the direct deposit program. 

Exhibit 5 - T-12 Spouse RAIL Notice 

1P the lag year is shown; eg., for the 2005 RAIL, 2004 was the lag year P

T-12(7-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 272 of 312 

 

 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

 

 

Office of Programs RRB Claim Number 

Operations MA 

 Always Use These Letters and 

Numbers When Writing Us 

 Visit our Web site at www.rrb.gov 

An increase in your railroad retirement annuity is payable. The railroad service and 

compensation earned by the employee through 1P are now included in your annuity. P 

Your July 1, ___ payment is $___. This rate includes any social security benefit paid by 

the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). We are withholding $__ in Federal income taxes 

from your monthly payment. If a Medicare insurance premium was deducted from your 

last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days. If you 

have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. 

The increase in your annuity is payable for months before June __. You will receive a 

payment for $__ within the next ten days. This is the total increase through May minus 

Federal income taxes of $__. We will deposit this payment in your checking or savings 

account if you are in the direct deposit program. 

 Robert J. Duda Director of Operations 

 

 

The opening paragraph may vary. If the spouse is adjusted because additional 

wages are included in the employee's PIA, the first paragraph reads: 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The wages earned by the 

employee through ____ are now included in your annuity. 

If the law year 83 age 62 recalculation is also performed and the spouse tier 1 

increases (used before 2002), the first paragraph reads: 

An increase is payable in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation earned by the employee through 1P are now included in your annuity. We P 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 273 of 312 

 

also increased the tier 1 portion of your annuity from the first full month both you and the 

employee were age 62. You will receive future tier 1 cost-of-living increases as they 

become payable. 

If the law year 83 age 62 recalculation results in a decrease in tier 1 but the lag 

RR service increases tier 2 (used before 2002), the first paragraph reads: An 

adjustment is due in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation earned by the employee through 1P are now included in the tier 2 portion P 

of your annuity. We also adjusted the tier 1 portion of your annuity from the first full 

month both you and the employee were age 62. You will receive future tier 1 

costofliving increases as they become payable. Your tier 1 is now reduced for the 

number of months you are under age 65. The change in your tier 1 results in a 

decrease in your annuity rate. 

If the law year 83 age 62 recalculation results in a decrease in tier 1 and there is 

no increase in tier 2 (used before 2002), the first paragraph reads: 

An adjustment is due in your railroad retirement annuity. We adjusted the tier 1 portion 

of your annuity from the first full month both you and the employee were age 62. You will 

receive future tier 1 cost-of-living increases as they become payable. Your tier 1 is now 

reduced for the number of months you are under age 65. The change in your tier 1 

results in a decrease in your annuity rate. 

If the spouse annuity is reduced for the RRA maximum and the maximum 

reduction increases (used before 2002), the following paragraph is included in the 

letter: 

The total benefits payable to you and the employee are limited by the maximum provision 

of the Railroad Retirement Act. This provision limits family benefits to a ceiling based on 

the employee's earnings during the ten years before the employee's annuity began. The

increase in your annuity is limited by this provision. 

If Federal income taxes are not withheld from the monthly payment, the middle 

paragraph reads: 

Your July 1, ____ payment is $_____. This rate includes any social security benefit paid 

by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). If a Medicare insurance premium was 

deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

The last paragraph may vary. If tier 2 increases but tier 1 decreases due to the law 

year 83 age 62 recalculations (used before 2002), the final paragraph reads: 

The increase in your tier 2 is payable for months before June __. You will receive a 

payment for $__ within the next ten days. This is the total increase through May minus 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 274 of 312 

 

Federal income taxes of $_____. We will deposit this payment in your checking or 

savings account if you are in the direct deposit program. 

If the accrual is withheld for Federal income taxes, the final paragraph reads: 

The increase in your annuity is payable for months before June __. The total increase 

through May is $_____. We withheld $__ in Federal income taxes from this payment. 

If only tier 2 increases and the accrual is withheld for Federal income taxes, the 

final paragraph reads: 

The increase in your tier 2 is payable for months before June __. The total increase 

through May is $_____. We withheld $__ in Federal income taxes from this payment. 

If the accrual is rejected, the final paragraph reads: 

We will send any back payments for months before June at a later date. 

Exhibit 5a - T-12a Spouse RAIL Notice 

1P the lag year is shown; eg., for the 1999 RAIL, 1998 was the lag year P 

T-12a(7-98) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

 

 

Office of Programs RRB Claim Number 

Operations MA 

 Always Use These Letters and 

Numbers When Writing Us 

 Visit our Web site at www.rrb.gov 

An adjustment is due in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation earned by the employee through 1P are now included in your annuity. P 

The total benefits payable to you and the employee are limited by the maximum provision 

of the Railroad Retirement Act. This provision limits family benefits to a ceiling based on 

the employee's earnings during the ten years before the employee's annuity began. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 275 of 312 

 

Because of the maximum provision, the increase in the employee's annuity causes a 

decrease in your annuity. Your July 1, __ payment is $__. This rate includes any social 

security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). We are withholding $__ in 

Federal income taxes from your monthly payment. If a Medicare insurance premium was 

deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days. If you 

have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. 

The change in your annuity and the employee's annuity is effective for months before June 

__. The total decrease in your benefits through May is $__. We recovered this amount 

from the increase payable to the employee for the same months. 

 Robert J. Duda Director of Operations 

 

 

The opening paragraph may vary. If the lawyear 83 age 62 recalculation is also 

performed, the first paragraph reads: 

An adjustment is due in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation earned by the employee through 1P are now included in your annuity. We P 

also increased the tier 1 portion of your annuity from the first full month both you and the 

employee were age 62. You will receive future tier 1 cost-of-living increases as they 

become payable. 

If Federal income taxes are not withheld from the monthly payment, the middle paragraph 

reads: 

Because of the maximum provision, the increase in the employee’s annuity causes a 

decrease in your annuity. Your July 1, 1999 payment is $_____. This rate includes any 

social security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). If a Medicare 

insurance premium was deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that 

deduction. 

Exhibit 5b - T-12b Spouse RAIL Notice 

1P the lag year is shown; eg., for the 1999 RAIL, 1998 was the lag year P 

T-12b(7-97) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 276 of 312 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

 

 

Office of Programs RRB Claim Number 

Operations MA 

 Always Use These Letters and 

Numbers When Writing Us 

 Visit our Web site at www.rrb.gov 

An adjustment is due in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation earned by the employee through 1P are now included in your annuity. P 

Your July 1, ___ payment is $___. This rate includes any social security benefit paid by 

the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). We are withholding $__ in Federal income taxes 

from your monthly payment. If a Medicare insurance premium was deducted from your last 

payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days. If you 

have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. 

The total benefits payable to you and the employee are limited by the maximum provision 

of the Railroad Retirement Act. This provision limits family benefits to a ceiling based on 

the employee's earnings during the ten years before the employee's annuity began. 

The change in your annuity and the employee's annuity is effective for months before June 

__. Before ______, you received $__ which is no longer payable because of the maximum 

provision. We recovered this amount from the increase payable to the employee for the 

same months. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations 

 

 

The opening paragraph may vary. If the law year 83 age 62 recalculation is also 

performed, the first paragraph reads: 

An adjustment is due in your railroad retirement annuity. The railroad service and 

compensation earned by the employee through 1P are now included in your annuity. We P 

also increased the tier 1 portion of your annuity from the first full month both you and the 

employee were age 62. You will receive future tier 1 cost-of-living increases as they 

become payable. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 277 of 312 

 

If Federal income taxes are not withheld from the monthly payment, the middle paragraph 

reads: 

Your July 1, ____ payment is $______. This rate includes any social security benefit paid 

by the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). If a Medicare insurance premium was 

deducted from your last payment, the rate shown reflects that deduction. 

Exhibit 6 - T-30 SALSA Notice 

T-30(8-00) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

 

 

Office of Programs RRB Claim Number 

Operations A 

 Always Use These Letters and 

Numbers When Writing Us 

 Visit our Web site at www.rrb.gov 

Before this year, your former railroad employer paid to you a separation allowance or 

severance payment. Your employer legally deducted railroad retirement tier 2 taxes from 

this payment. These taxes did not produce an increase in your monthly railroad 

retirement benefits. 

You are receiving a special payment based on these taxes. You will receive the 

payment of $___ thin the next ten days. We will deposit this payment in your checking or 

savings account if you are in the direct deposit program. This payment is not subject to 

Federal income tax. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this payment within 60 days. If you have 

any questions, contact the nearest office of the Railroad Retirement Board. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations 

 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 278 of 312 

 

If a SALSA has previously been paid, the letter reads: 

Before this year, your former railroad employer paid to you a separation allowance or 

severance payment. Your employer legally deducted railroad retirement tier 2 taxes from 

this payment. These taxes did not produce an increase in your monthly railroad 

retirement benefits. After you retired, we sent to you a special payment based on these 

taxes. 

We have now received new information from your former employer. You are receiving 

another special payment based on the taxes you paid. You will receive the payment of 

$____ within the next ten days. We will deposit this payment in your checking or savings 

account if you are in the direct deposit program. This payment is not subject to Federal 

income tax. 

Exhibit 7 - T-51 December 1st SSA Offset Correction Notice 

NOTE: T-51 is no longer used. In 2022, it was replaced by RL-51A (refer to Exhibit 34).

T-51(11-15) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

 

 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

 

 

Office of Programs Visit our Web site at www.rrb.gov Operations 

 

The Tier 1 portion of your railroad retirement annuity must be reduced by the amount of 

any social security benefit to which you are entitled. The Social Security Administration 

advises that your total social security benefit amount (before the cost-of-living increase that 

will be included in your January payment and before any deduction for a Medicare 

premium) is $ _____. Your Tier 1 is currently reduced by a lower amount of $ _____. 

Your Tier 1 amount will be corrected as soon as possible but not before January 1, ___. 

Your Tier 1 will be reduced by your current social security benefit amount adjusted for the 

0.3 percent cost-of-living increase payable on the benefit beginning January 1. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 279 of 312

 

If the social security benefit amount provided by the Social Security Administration is not 

correct, contact the nearest office of the Railroad Retirement Board within thirty days of the 

date of this letter. 

 

 

Exhibit 8 - CPI T-60 Version 1 

 

Director of Programs 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Railroad retirement benefits are adjusted each year based on changes in the cost of 

living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living adjustment for 

December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase, the increase should have been 2.5 

percent. As a result, a small increase in monthly tier 1 railroad retirement benefits is 

payable to some individuals. We are adjusting benefits for individuals affected by this 

change effective with August 1, 2001 payments. 

We have determined that you are not due an increase in your benefits. Benefits are only 

affected by this change if, before January 2000, the employee on whose record the 

benefits are based was age 62 or older, determined to be disabled, or deceased. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call us 

at 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 280 of 312

 

(999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by visiting our 

website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our toll-free RRB 

HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board T-60 (01) 

 07/01 

Exhibit 9 - CPI T-60 Version 2 

 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Railroad retirement benefits are adjusted each year based on changes in the cost of 

living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living adjustment for 

December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase, the increase should have been 2.5 

percent, a difference of 0.1 percent. As a result, a small increase in monthly tier 1 railroad 

retirement benefits is payable to some individuals. We are adjusting benefits for 

individuals affected by this change effective with August 1, 2001 payments. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 281 of 312

 

We have determined that you are not due an increase in your benefits. The law requires 

that benefits be rounded to the dollar and also reduced because of a required offset for 

other government benefits, such as Social Security, a public service pension, or another 

railroad retirement annuity. Because of these benefit calculation rules, the small increase 

of 0.1 percent in the cost-of-living adjustment did not change the amount of your monthly 

benefits. 

If 

you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call us 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

 T-60 (02) 

 

Exhibit 10 - CPI T-60 Version 3 

 

07/01 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 282 of 312

 

at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by visiting 

our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our toll-free 

RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 283 of 312

 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Railroad retirement benefits are adjusted each year based on changes in the cost of 

living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living adjustment for 

December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase in tier 1 railroad retirement benefits, 

the increase should have been 2.5 percent. As a result, you are due a small increase in 

your monthly railroad retirement annuity. 

Your August 1, 2001 payment will be $ 9999.99. This new rate includes any supplemental 

annuity paid to you by the Railroad Retirement Board, and is after Federal income tax 

withholding, if any. If a Medicare premium was deducted from your last payment, the rate 

is also after that deduction. 

You will receive a separate payment of $ 99.99 within the next few days for the increase 

due you for months before July 2001. If you have Direct Deposit for your monthly 

payments, we will deposit this payment into your checking or savings account. You should 

receive this payment a few days before your August 1 payment. Please do not confuse 

this payment with your regular monthly payment. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call us 

at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by visiting 

our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our toll-free 

RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 

 

 

U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 T-60 (03) 

 

Exhibit 11 - CPI T-60 Version 4 

 

07/01 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 284 of 312

 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits are adjusted each year based on 

changes in the cost of living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living 

adjustment for December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase in tier 1 railroad 

retirement benefits and Social Security benefits, the increase should have been 2.5 

percent. Most beneficiaries affected by this change will receive an increase in their 

August 1, 2001 payments. 

We did not adjust your August 1 payment. We need to review the calculation of your 

monthly benefits. We will send you a letter explaining the results of our review within 90 

days. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call 

us at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by 

visiting our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our 

tollfree RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

 T-60 (04) 

 07/01 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 285 of 312

 

Exhibit 12 - CPI T-60 Version 5 

 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Social Security benefits are adjusted each year based on changes in the cost of living. 

The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living adjustment for December 

1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase, the increase should have been 2.5 percent. As a 

result, a small increase in monthly Social Security benefits is payable to some 

individuals. We are adjusting benefits for individuals affected by this change effective 

with August 1, 2001 payments. 

We have determined that you are not due an increase in your benefits because of one of 

the following reasons. 

Benefits are only affected by this change if, before January 2000, the person on whose 

record the benefits are based was age 62 or older, determined by the Social Security 

Administration to be disabled, or deceased. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 286 of 312

 

Because of rounding rules, the small increase of 0.1 percent did not change your monthly 

Social Security rate. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call 

us at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by 

visiting our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our 

tollfree RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

 T-60 (05) 

 

Exhibit 13 - CPI T-60 Version 6 

 

07/01 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 287 of 312

 

Social Security benefits are adjusted each year based on changes in the cost of living. 

The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living adjustment for December 

1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase, the increase should have been 2.5 percent. As a 

result, you are due a small increase in your monthly Social Security benefits. 

Your August 1, 2001 payment will be $ 9999.99. If a Medicare premium was deducted from 

your last payment, this new rate is after that deduction. 

You will receive a separate payment of $ 99.99 within the next few days for the increase 

due you for months before July 2001. If you have Direct Deposit for your monthly 

payments, we will deposit this payment into your checking or savings account. You should 

receive this payment a few days before your August 1 payment. Please do not confuse 

this payment with your regular monthly payment. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call us 

at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by visiting 

our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our toll-free 

RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 

 

U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 T-60 (06) 

 

Exhibit 14 - TCI T-60 Version 7 

 

07/01 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 288 of 312

 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits are adjusted each year based on 

changes in the cost of living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living 

adjustment for December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase in tier 1 railroad 

retirement benefits and Social Security benefits, the increase should have been 2.5 

percent. As a result, you are due a small increase in your monthly benefits. 

Your August 1, 2001 payment will be $ 9999.99. This new rate includes your Social 

Security benefits and any supplemental annuity paid to you by the Railroad Retirement 

Board. The new rate is after any Federal income tax withholding from your monthly 

payment. If a Medicare premium was deducted from your last payment, the rate is also 

after that deduction. 

You will receive a separate payment of $ 99.99 within the next few days for the increase 

due you for months before July 2001. If you have Direct Deposit for your monthly 

payments, we will deposit this payment into your checking or savings account. You should 

receive this payment a few days before your August 1 payment. Please do not confuse 

this payment with your regular monthly payment. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call us 

at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by visiting 

our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our toll-free 

RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

 T-60 (07) 07/01 

Exhibit 15 - CPI T-60 Version 8 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 289 of 312

 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits are adjusted each year based on 

changes in the cost of living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living 

adjustment for December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase in tier 1 railroad 

retirement benefits and Social Security benefits, the increase should have been 2.5 

percent. 

We are adjusting your August 1, 2001 payment to include the increase due in your 

monthly tier 1 railroad retirement benefits. Your August 1 payment will be $ 9999.99. 

This new rate includes your Social Security benefits and any supplemental annuity paid to 

you by the Railroad Retirement Board, and is after Federal income tax withholding, if any. 

If a Medicare premium was deducted from your last payment, the rate is also after that 

deduction. 

You will receive a separate payment of $ 99.99 within the next few days for the increase 

due in your tier 1 benefits for months before July 2001. If you have Direct Deposit for 

your monthly payments, we will deposit this payment into your checking or savings 

account. You should receive this payment a few days before your August 1 payment. 

Please do not confuse this payment with your regular monthly payment. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 290 of 312

 

We did not adjust your Social Security benefits. We need to review the calculation of your 

monthly rate. We will send you a letter explaining the results of our review within 90 

days. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call us 

at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by visiting 

our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our toll-free 

RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

 T-60 (08) 

 

Exhibit16 - CPI T-60 Version 9 

 

07/01 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 291 of 312

 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits are adjusted each year based on 

changes in the cost of living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living 

adjustment for December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase in tier 1 railroad 

retirement benefits and Social Security benefits, the increase should have been 2.5 

percent. 

We adjusted your August 1, 2001 payment to include the increase due in your monthly 

Social Security benefits. Your August 1 payment will be $ 9999.99. This new rate 

includes any supplemental annuity paid to you by the Railroad Retirement Board, and is 

after Federal income tax withholding, if any. If a Medicare premium was deducted from 

your last payment, the rate is also after that deduction. 

You will receive a separate payment of $ 99.99 within the next few days for the increase 

due in your Social Security benefits for months before July 2001. If you have Direct 

Deposit for your monthly payments, we will deposit this payment into your checking or 

savings account. You should receive this payment a few days before your August 1 

payment. Please do not confuse this payment with your regular monthly payment. 

We did not adjust your tier 1 railroad retirement benefits. We need to review the 

calculation of your monthly railroad retirement benefits. We will send you a letter 

explaining the results of our review within 90 days. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call 

us at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by 

visiting our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our 

tollfree RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

 T-60 (09) 

 

Exhibit 17 - CPI T-60 Version 10 

 

07/01 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 292 of 312

 

Railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits are adjusted each year based 

on changes in the cost of living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of 

living adjustment for December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase, the increase 

should have been 2.5 percent, a difference of 0.1 percent. As a result, a small increase in 

monthly tier 1 railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits is payable to some 

individuals. We are adjusting benefits for individuals affected by this change effective 

with August 1, 2001 payments. 

We have determined that you are not due an increase in your benefits because of one or 

both of the following reasons. 

Benefits are only affected by this change if, before January 2000, the employee on whose 

record the benefits are based was age 62 or older, determined to be disabled, or 

deceased. 

The law requires that benefits be rounded to the dollar and also reduced because of a 

required offset for other government benefits, such as Social Security, a public service 

pension, or another railroad retirement annuity. Because of these benefit calculation 

rules, the small increase of 0.1 percent in the cost-of-living adjustment did not change the 

amount of your monthly benefits. 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 293 of 312

 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call 

us at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by 

visiting our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our 

tollfree RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

 T-60 (10) 

 

Exhibit 18 - CPI T-60 Version 11 

 

07/01 

Railroad Retirement Board 

Field Office Address Line 1 

Field Office Address Line 2 

Field Office Address Line 3 

Field Office Address Line 4 

 POSTAL BAR CODE 

 COA7516061199999999989 

 Name and Address Line 1 

 Name and Address Line 2 

 Name and Address Line 3 

 Name and Address Line 4 

 Name and Address Line 5 

 Name and Address Line 6 

Issued: July 20, 2001 

 RRB Claim Number 

 XXX 999-99-9999 

Railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits are adjusted each year based on 

changes in the cost of living. The Department of Labor recently revised the cost of living 

adjustment for December 1999. Instead of a 2.4 percent increase in tier 1 railroad 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 294 of 312

 

retirement benefits and Social Security benefits, the increase should have been 2.5 

percent. We are adjusting benefits for individuals affected by this change effective with 

August 1, 2001 payments. 

Your August 1, 2001 payment will not change. The law requires that benefits be rounded 

to the dollar and also reduced because of a required offset for other government 

benefits, such as Social Security. Because of these benefit calculation rules, the total 

amount of your current monthly payment does not change. 

Even though your current monthly payment does not change, you are due a small increase 

in your Social Security benefits for months before July 2001. You will receive a separate 

payment of $99.99 within the next few days. If you have Direct Deposit for your monthly 

payments, we will deposit this payment into your checking or savings account. You should 

receive this payment a few days before your August 1 payment. Please do not confuse 

this payment with your regular monthly payment. 

If you have questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or call 

us at (999) 999-9999. You can also get general information about this subject by 

visiting our website at www.rrb.gov and clicking on “What’s New,” or by calling our 

tollfree RRB HelpLine at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. 

 U. S. Railroad Retirement Board T-60 (11) 

 07/01 

Exhibit 19 CPI T-61 

Notice About U. S. Federal Income Taxes 

If your regular monthly payments are reduced because of United States Federal income 

tax withholding, we also deducted U. S. Federal income taxes from the separate payment 

you are due for months before July 2001. The amount of the payment that is shown in the 

accompanying letter is after we reduced the payment for income tax withholding. 

Form T-61 (07/01) 

Exhibit 20 T-78 WIMA Mass Adjustment Notice 

 T-78(04-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 295 of 312 

 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 

N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

________________________________________________________________ 

Office of Programs 

Operations RRB Claim Number 

 A 

 

 Visit our Web site at 

www.rrb.goT vT 

 

Your May 1, 2002 payment (your annuity for April) will increase to $__________. The 

increase in your annuity is also payable for months before April. You will receive a 

payment for $______ within the next ten days. This is the increase amount due through 

March minus Federal income taxes of $________. We will deposit this payment in your 

checking or savings account if you are in the direct deposit program. 

The increase in your monthly payment is a result of the Railroad Retirement and 

Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001. The new law created a widow(er)’s initial minimum 

amount beginning with annuities payable for February 2002 (March 1, 2002 and later 

payments). Your initial minimum amount is higher than your current tier 1 and tier 2 

benefits. Your monthly payment will be based on your initial minimum amount until annual 

cost-of-living increases raise your regular annuity to a higher amount. 

If you have any questions, contact the nearest office of the Railroad Retirement Board. 

You have the right to request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days of the date 

of this letter. 

 

 

 Robert J. Duda 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 296 of 312 

 

 Director of Operations. 

 

 

 

If the accrual payment is reduced to zero by Federal income tax withholding, or no accrual 

is payable, the first paragraph is worded to describe those situations. 

Exhibit 21 - T-79 

T-79(04-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

_________________________________________________________________ U.S. 

Railroad Retirement Board 

844 N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

_________________________________________________________________ 

Office of Programs 

Operations RRB Claim Number 

 A 

 

 Visit our Web site at www.rrb.goTvT

 

 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 created a widow(er)’s initial minimum 

amount beginning with annuities payable for February 2002 (March 1, 2002 and later payments). We are not 

able to compute your initial minimum amount at this time. We will complete our review of your case within 

the next 90 days, and we will send you another letter to let you know if your initial minimum amount will 

increase your monthly payment. 

 

 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 297 of 312 

 

Exhibit 22 RRA Max T-84 

T-84 RRA Maximum Mass Adjustment Notice 

 T-84(05-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 

N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

________________________________________________________________ 

Office of Programs 

Operations RRB Claim Number 

 A 

 Visit our Web site at 

 www.rrb.goTvT 

Your June 1, 2002 payment (your annuity for May) will increase to $_____________. We 

are withholding $________ in Federal income taxes from your monthly payment. The 

increase in your annuity is also payable for months before May. You will receive a 

payment for $_________ within the next ten days. This is the increase amount due 

through April minus Federal income taxes of $___________. We will deposit this payment 

in your checking or savings account if you are in the direct deposit program. 

The increase in your monthly payment is a result of the Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ 

Improvement Act of 2001. The new law eliminates the maximum amount that reduces 

some monthly employee and spouse annuities. The maximum amount ends effective with 

annuities payable for January 2002 (February 1, 2002 and later payments). 

If you have any questions, contact the nearest office of the RRB. You have the right to 

request reconsideration of this rate change within 60 days of the date of this letter. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations. 

If the accrual payment is reduced to zero by Federal income tax withholding, or no accrual 

is payable, the first paragraph is worded to describe those situations. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 298 of 312 

 

If the RRA maximum reduction reduced tier 2 to zero and RRB records indicate the 

annuitant (or the employee if the annuitant is a spouse) is currently working in LPE, an 

additional paragraph is included to advise the annuitant that LPE work deductions were 

withheld now that tier 2 is greater than zero. The special paragraphs are as follows: 

Annuitant is an employee: 

“We are withholding a portion of your annuity because our records show that you are 

working for your last pre-retirement employer. If this is not correct, contact the nearest 

office of the Railroad Retirement Board.” 

Annuitant is a spouse: 

“We are withholding a portion of your annuity because our records show that you or your 

spouse are working for a last pre-retirement employer. If this is not correct, contact the 

nearest office of the Railroad Retirement Board.” 

Exhibit 23 RRA Max T-85 

T-85 RRA Maximum Mass Adjustment Notice 

 T-85(05-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 

N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

________________________________________________________________ 

Office of Programs 

Operations RRB Claim Number 

 A 

 Visit our Web site at 

www.rrb.goT vT 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 eliminates the maximum 

amount that reduces some employee supplemental annuities. Your monthly payment will 

not change. Your supplemental annuity is also reduced by the pension you receive from 

your former railroad employer. Because of this pension reduction, your monthly 

supplemental annuity amount does not change. 

 Robert J. Duda 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 299 of 312 

 

 Director of Operations. 

Exhibit 24 RRA Max T-86 

T-86 RRA Maximum Mass Adjustment Notice 

 T-86(05-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

_________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 844 

N. Rush St. 

Chicago, IL 60611-2092 Date: 

_________________________________________________________________ 

Office of Programs 

Operations RRB Claim Number 

 A 

 Visit our Web site at 

 www.rrb.goTvT 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 eliminates the maximum 

amount that reduces some monthly employee and spouse annuities. We are not able to 

adjust your annuity at this time, but we will adjust it within the next 90 days. You will 

receive another letter that will provide your new monthly payment amount, and you will 

receive any back payments due. 

 Robert J. Duda 

 Director of Operations. 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 300 of 312 

 

Exhibit 25 T-71 WIMA Increase Advance Notice 

 T-71(01-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (Field 

Office address) 

 

Issued: January 23, 2002 

 RRB Claim Number 

 

A recent change in the law will affect the amount of railroad retirement benefits paid to you 

each month. 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 establishes an initial 

base amount for widow(er)s. Your initial base amount is the tier 1 benefit to which you 

were entitled in the month your payment began, plus an amount approximately equal to the 

tier 2 benefit that was payable to the deceased railroad employee. The initial base amount 

is reduced for early retirement, and it does not receive cost-of-living increases. 

Your initial base amount is compared to the monthly tier 1 and tier 2 benefits to which 

you are entitled beginning in February 2002. We have reviewed our records, and 

determined that your initial base amount is higher than your tier 1 and tier 2 benefits 

effective February 2002. We are working on your case to determine the exact amount of 

the increase your are due. We will finish our determination by May 1, 2002. At that time 

your monthly payment will be adjusted and you will receive another letter explaining the 

increase. You will also receive a special payment for the additional amount you are due 

for months beginning with February 2002. 

If you have any questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or 

call us at (999) 999-9999. Due to the high volume of calls we are receiving, we ask for 

your patience. You can get general information about the change in the law by going to 

“Latest News” on our Web site at www.rrb.goT v,T or by calling our toll-free RRB HelpLine 

at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. E-mail inquiries about the new law and how it 

affects you can be sent to the RRB by going to our Web site and clicking on 

“Send us a secure message” under “Latest News.” 

 U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 301 of 312 

 

 

Exhibit 26, T-72 No WIMA Increase 

 T-72(1-02) 

 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (Field 

Office address) 

 

Issued: January 24, 2002 

 RRB Claim Number 

 

A recent change in the law does not affect the amount of railroad retirement benefits paid to 

you each month. 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 establishes an initial 

base amount for widow(er)s. Your initial base amount is the tier 1 benefit to which you 

were entitled in the month your payment began, plus an amount approximately equal to the 

tier 2 benefit that was payable to the deceased railroad employee. The initial base amount 

is reduced for early retirement, and it does not receive cost-of-living increases. 

Your initial base amount is compared to the monthly tier 1 and tier 2 benefits to which you 

are entitled beginning in February 2002. After careful review of your payment, we find that 

your tier 1 and tier 2 benefits computed under the regular formula as of February 2002 are 

higher than your initial base amount. Therefore, the new law does not change your 

monthly payment. 

If you have any questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or 

call us at (999) 999-9999. Due to the high volume of calls we are receiving, we ask for 

your patience. You can get general information about the change in the law by going to 

“Latest News” on our Web site at www.rrb.goT v,T or by calling our toll-free RRB HelpLine 

at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. E-mail inquiries about the new law and how it 

affects you can be sent to the RRB by going to our Web site and clicking on 

“Send us a secure message” under “Latest News.” 

 U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 302 of 312 

 

 

Exhibit 27 T-73 No WIMA for Remarried Widow(er)s or Surviving Divorced 

Spouses 

 T-73(01)02 

 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (Field 

Office address) 

 

Issued: January 28, 2002 

 RRB Claim Number 

This is to notify you of a recent change in the law and to explain why your monthly payment 

is not affected by the change. 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 establishes an initial base 

amount for widow(er)s. Te law does not change the annuity computation for remarried 

widow(er)s or surviving divorced spouses. Therefore, the new law does not change your 

monthly payment. 

If you have any questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or 

call us at (999) 999-9999. Due to the high volume of calls we are receiving, we ask for 

your patience. You can get general information about the change in the law by going to 

“Latest News” on our Web site at www.rrb.goT v,T or by calling our toll-free RRB HelpLine 

at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. E-mail inquiries about the new law and how it 

affects you can be sent to the RRB by going to our Web site and clicking on 

“Send us a secure message” under “Latest News.” 

 U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

Exhibit 28 T-74 No WIMA for 1937/1974 act Widow(er)s annuities 

 

 T-74(01-02) 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 303 of 312 

 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (Field 

Office address) 

 

Issued: January 31, 2002 

 RRB Claim Number 

 

This is to notify you of a recent change in the law and to explain why your monthly payment 

is not affected. 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 establishes an initial 

base amount for widow(er)s if the railroad employee began receiving a payment or died 

after September 1981, or the widow(er) began receiving a payment after September 

1986. After a careful review of your records, we find that the new law does not apply to 

your monthly payment because it bagan before October 1, 1986, and the railroad 

employee died or began receiving a payment before October 1, 1981. Therefore, the new 

law does not change your monthly payment. 

If you have any questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or 

call us at (999) 999-9999. Due to the high volume of calls we are receiving, we ask for 

your patience. You can get general information about the change in the law by going to 

“Latest News” on our Web site at www.rrb.goT v,T or by calling our toll-free RRB HelpLine 

at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. E-mail inquiries about the new law and how it 

affects you can be sent to the RRB by going to our Web site and clicking on 

“Send us a secure message” under “Latest News.” 

 U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

Exhibit 29 T-75 Notice to Employees and Spouses with RRA Maximum 

Reduction 

 T-75(01-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (Field 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 304 of 312 

 

Office address) 

 

Issued: January 25, 2002 

 RRB Claim Number 

A recent change in the law affects the amount of railroad retirement benefits paid to you 

each month. 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 repealed the maximum 

retirement benefit provision of the Railroad Retirement Act effective with monthly benefits 

payable for January 2002. This provision had limited monthly family benefits to an amount 

based on an employee’s average earnings in the 10-year period prior to retirement. 

Reductions were applied to employee and/or spouse payments so that benefits did not 

exceed the maximum amount. 

Your monthly payment is currently reduced because of the maximum provision. We will 

remove the reduction in your monthly payments by June 1, 2002. At that time we will 

mail you another letter to explain the increase in your monthly payments. You will also 

receive a special payment for the additional benefits due you for months after December 

2001. 

If you have any questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or 

call us at (999) 999-9999. Due to the high volume of calls we are receiving, we ask for 

your patience. You can get general information about the change in the law by going to 

“Latest News” on our Web site at www.rrb.goT v,T or by calling our toll-free RRB HelpLine 

at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. E-mail inquiries about the new law and how it 

affects you can be sent to the RRB by going to our Web site and clicking on 

“Send us a secure message” under “Latest News.” 

 U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

Exhibit 30 T-76 Notice to Employees of Impact on Potential Spouse 

Benefits Resulting From Elimination of the RRA Maximum 

 T-76(01-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (Field 

Office address) 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 305 of 312 

 

 

Issued: January 18, 2002 

 RRB Claim Number 

A recent change in the law may affect the amount of railroad retirement benefits payable 

based on your earnings. 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 repealed the maximum 

benefit provision of the Railroad Retirement Act effective with monthly benefits payable 

for January 2002. This provision had limited monthly family benefits to an amount based 

on an employee’s average earnings in the 10-year period prior to retirement. Reductions 

were applied to employee and spouse annuities so that benefits did not exceed the 

maximum amount. 

Under the maximum benefit provision, combined employee and spouse benefits could 

sometimes be less than the benefits paid to the employee alone. In this situation, we 

advised the spouse not to file for benefits. With the repeal of this provision, it is now 

advantageous for these spouses to file for benefits. 

If you have a spouse who is not receiving monthly railroad retirement payments and may 

be eligible for benefits, write to us at the address shown above or call us a (999) 9999999. 

Due to the high volume of calls we are receiving, we ask for your patience. 

You can also get general information about the change in the law by going to “Latest 

News” on our Web site at www.rrb.goT v,T or by calling our toll-free RRB HelpLine at 1800-

808-0772 and selecting option 6. E-mail inquiries about the new law and how it affects you 

can be sent to the RRB by going to our Web sit and clicking on “Send us a secure 

message” under “Latest News.” 

 U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

 

Exhibit 31 T-77 WIMA Eligibility Cannot be Determined 

 T-77(01-02) 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE 

________________________________________________________________ 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (Field 

Office address) 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 306 of 312 

 

Issued: January 22, 2002 

 RRB Claim Number 

A recent change in the law may affect the amount of railroad retirement benefits paid to you 

each month. 

The Railroad Retirement and Survivors’ Improvement Act of 2001 establishes an initial 

base amount for widow(er)s. Your initial base amount is the tier 1 benefit to which you 

were entitled in the month your payment began, plus an amount approximately equal to the 

tier 2 benefit that was payable to the deceased railroad employee. The initial base amount 

is reduced for early retirement, and it does not receive cost-of-living increases. The initial 

base amount is compared to the tier 1 and tier 2 benefits to which you are entitled effective 

February 2002. 

We are working on your case to determine if you initial base amount is higher than the 

monthly tier 1 and tier 2 benefits payable to you effective February 2002. We will finish our 

determination by May 1, 2002. At that time we will mail you another letter to let you know 

if you are due an increase in your monthly payment. If you are due an increase, we will 

also tell you the amount of the increase. 

If you have any questions about this notice, write to us at the address shown above or 

call us at (999) 999-9999. Due to the high volume of calls we are receiving, we ask for 

your patience. You can get general information about the change in the law by going to 

“Latest News” on our Web site at www.rrb.goT v,T or by calling our toll-free RRB HelpLine 

at 1-800-808-0772 and selecting option 6. E-mail inquiries about the new law and how it 

affects you can be sent to the RRB by going to our Web site and clicking on 

“Send us a secure message” under “Latest News.” 

 U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

Exhibit 32 RL-119R RESCUE adjustment letter 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT AWARD NOTICE 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

844 N. Rush Street Chicago, Illinois 60611-2092 Date: 

 RL-119R 

 Office of Programs 

 Operations 

NAME A 999-99-9999 

ADDRESS LINE 1 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 307 of 312 

 

ADDRESS LINE 2 

Your monthly annuity payments have been adjusted. 

(RESCUE paragraphs) 

[the following paragraph is included in employee letters if only the regular annuity is 

adjusted] 

Your new regular monthly annuity amount is $_________. This is only your regular 

annuity rate; it does not include any supplemental annuity or social security benefit paid by 

the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). Your next monthly payment will include your new 

regular annuity rate plus any supplemental annuity or social security benefit paid by the 

RRB. If a Medicare insurance premium was deducted from your last payment, the 31T 

amount will continue to be deducted from your next payment. 

[the following paragraph is included in employee letters if both the regular annuity and the 

supplemental annuity are adjusted] 

Your new regular monthly annuity amount is $________. Your new monthly supplemental 

annuity amount is $_______. Your next monthly payment will include both your new 

regular annuity rate and your new supplemental annuity rate plus any social security 

benefit paid by the RRB. If a Medicare insurance premium was deducted T31 from your last 

payment, the amount will continue to be deducted from your next payment. 

[T31 the following paragraph is included in employee letters if only the supplemental annuity is 

adjusted] 

Your new supplemental annuity amount is $________. This is only your supplemental T31 

annuity rate; it does not include your regular annuity or any social security benefit paid by 

the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). Your next monthly payment will include both your 

regular annuity rate and your new supplemental annuity rate plus any social security 

benefit paid by the RRB. If a Medicare insurance premium was deducted from your last 

payment, the amount will continue to be deducted from your next payment. 

[T31 the following paragraph is included in spouse letters] 

Your new monthly annuity amount is $________. This is only your railroad retirement T31 

annuity rate; it does not include any social security benefit paid by the Railroad Retirement 

Board (RRB). Your next monthly payment will include both your new regular annuity rate 

plus any social security benefit paid by the RRB. If a Medicare insurance premium was 

deducted from your last payment, the amount will continue to be deducted from your next 

payment. 

[the following paragraph is included if taxes are withheld from the monthly payment] 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 308 of 312

 

We are withholding $________ in Federal income taxes from your monthly payment. 

This may include taxes withheld from the social security equivalent benefit portion of tier 1 

based on your IRS Form W-4V voluntary withholding request. 

[the following paragraph is included only if a regular annuity accrual is paid] 

The increase in your regular annuity is payable for earlier months. You will receive a 

payment for $_______. This payment is the difference between the amount of regular 

annuity benefits that were due and any benefits that have already been paid minus Federal 

income taxes of $________. 

[the following paragraph is included only if a supplemental annuity accrual is paid] 

The increase in your supplemental annuity is payable for earlier months. You will receive 

a payment for $_________). This payment is the difference between the amount of 

supplemental annuity benefits that were due and any benefits that have already been paid 

minus Federal income taxes of $________. 

If you are enrolled in the Direct Deposit Program, your back payment(s) will be sent to your 

checking or savings account. If you have not already received your back payment(s), you should 

receive it within the following two weeks. If you do not receive this payment, please refer to 

this number when writing to us: Voucher number 575. 

YOUR RIGHTS TO RECONSIDERATION AND APPEAL 

If you believe that this rate change is not correct, you may request that the rate be 

reconsidered. Your right to reconsideration applies only to the Railroad Retirement 

Board’s rate change in this case; it does not apply to the adjustment for federal income tax 

withholding. If you wish this reconsideration, you must request it in writing, and your 

request must be received by the Railroad Retirement Board WITHIN 60 DAYS from the 

date of this notice. You may send your request to any field office of the Railroad 

Retirement Board or you may send it directly to the following address: Railroad 

Retirement Board, Reconsideration Section, 844 North Rush Street, Chicago Illinois 

60611-2092. If you have any additional evidence to be considered, please include it 

with your request. 

If you disagree with the reconsideration, you may then appeal to the Bureau of Hearings 

and Appeals within 60 days from the date of the Reconsideration decision. 

If you do not request a reconsideration within 60 days from the date of this notice, you may 

not be able to file an appeal at a later date. 

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 309 of 312

 

If you have any questions about your railroad retirement payments or if you wish to change 

the amount of taxes withheld each month, you should contact a representative in our 

________ field office. That office is located at: 

The telephone number is XXX-XXX-XXXX. 

If you write to the Railroad Retirement Board, include a copy of this notice with your letter. 

If you call in person, bring this notice and any other information you may have about your 

claim with you. You are urged to call for an appointment; you will not be refused service 

if you do not have an appointment, but the Railroad Retirement Board’s representatives 

can serve you better with an appointment. Most Railroad Retirement 

Board offices are open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Exhibit 33 RL-45R RESCUE One Payment Only Letter 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT AWARD NOTICE 

U.S. Railroad Retirement Board 

844 N. Rush Street Chicago, Illinois 60611-2092 Date: 

 RL-45R 

 Office of Programs 

 Operations 

NAME A 999-99-9999 

ADDRESS LINE 1 

ADDRESS LINE 2 

You are entitled to an adjustment payment of $____________.

INFORMATION ABOUT THIS AWARD

(RESCUE paragraphs)

INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR PAYMENT 

Since you are enrolled in the Direct Deposit Program, this payment will be sent to your 

checking or savings account, 

 OR 

The payment will be delivered to you at the address shown on this letter.
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 310 of 312

 

If you have not already received this payment, you should receive it within the following 

two weeks. 

If you do not receive this payment, please refer to this number when writing to us: Voucher 

number 575. 

YOUR RIGHTS TO RECONSIDERATION AND APPEAL 

If you believe that this rate change is not correct, you may request that the rate be 

reconsidered. Your request must be in writing and you should explain why you disagree. If 

you wish this reconsideration, your request must be received by the Board WITHIN 60 

DAYS from the date of this notice. You may file your request at any field office of the 

Railroad Retirement Board or you may send it directly to the following address: Railroad 

Retirement Board, Reconsideration Section, 844 North Rush Street, Chicago, Illinois, 

60611-2092. If you have additional evidence to be considered, please include it with your 

request. 

If you disagree with the reconsideration decision, you may then appeal to the Bureau of 

Hearings and Appeals within 60 days from the date of the reconsideration decision. 

If you do not request a reconsideration within 60 days from the date of this notice, you may 

not file an appeal at a later date. 

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS 

If you have any questions about this notice, you should contact a representative in our 

____________ field office. That office is located at: 

 

The telephone number is XXX-XXX-XXXX. 

If you write to the Railroad Retirement Board, include a copy of this notice with your letter. 

If you call in person, bring this notice and any other information you may have about your 

claim with you. You are urged to call for an appointment; you will not be refused service 

if you do not have an appointment, but the Railroad Retirement Board’s representatives 

can serve you better with an appointment. Most Railroad Retirement 

Board offices are open to the public from 9:00 a.m to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday 

 

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 311 of 312

 

 

If you have any questions about your railroad retirement payments or if you wish to 

change the amount of taxes withheld each month, you should contact a 

representative in our ________ field office. 

That office is located at _______________________ 

 _______________________ 

The telephone number is XXX-XXX-XXXX. 

If you have any questions about the amount of taxes you may owe, contact an office of the 

Internal Revenue Service. 

If you write to the Railroad Retirement Board, include a copy of this notice with your letter. 

If you call in person, bring this notice and any other information you may have about your 

claim with you. You are urged to call for an appointment; you will not be refused service if 

you do not have an appointment, but the Railroad Retirement Board's representatives can 

serve you better with an appointment. Most Railroad Retirement 

Board offices are open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

 
RCM 6.8 

RCM 6.8 Mass Adjustments Revised December 5, 2022 Page 312 of 312 

 

Exhibit 34 - RL-51A December 1st SSA Offset Correction Notice 

 RL-51A (11-22) 

 

RAILROAD RETIREMENT NOTICE

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

RAILROAD RETIREMENT BOARD

844 N. RUSH STREET

CHICAGO, IL 60611-1275 DATE: DECEMBER 1, 2022

Office of Programs Operaions 

 Visit our website at: www.rrb.gov

The Tier I portion of your railroad retirement annuity must be reduced by the amount of any social 

security benefits to which you are entitled. The Social Security Administration advises that your

total social security benefit amount is $0000.00. This is the amount before the cost-of-living increase 

that will be included in your January payment, and before any deductions for Medicare

premiums. Your Tier I is currently reduced by a lower amount of $0000.00. This amount is incorrect.

Your Tier I amount will be corrected as soon as possible, but not before January 1, 2023. It will be 

reduced by your social security benefit amount, adjusted for the 8.7 percent cost-of-living

increase payable beginning January 1, 2023.

If the social security benefit amount provided by the Social Security Administration is not correct, please 

contact the nearest office of the Railroad Retirement Board within 30 days of the date of this letter.

 Director of Retirement and Survivor Benefits