For many years this book has been utilized by officials of railway management, rail labor, government and beneficiaries, as well as by students of social insurance programs and pension systems. It was designed to provide a convenient reference for those requiring a comprehensive single source of information on the development and character of the railroad retirement/survivor and unemployment/sickness benefit programs.

This edition reflects the laws in effect as of January 2006. Certain limitations, exceptions and special cases are not covered. Further information may be obtained by contacting the nearest Railroad Retirement Board field office, or the Board's headquarters in Chicago, Illinois. A toll-free Help Line is available at 800-808-0772, which, among many services, can be used to obtain the addresses and telephone numbers of the Board's field offices.

We trust that this book will continue to serve as an authoritative and useful source of information on the railroad retirement and unemployment insurance systems.