Federal Retirement Programs

Both the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) provide a defined benefit — a basic annuity, or a series of payments at regular intervals — after your retire.

But while CSRS is a defined benefit-only plan with no portability, FERS includes automatic enrollment in Social Security, automatic enrollment in the Thrift Savings Plan with options for additional contributions, and portability (the ability to roll over your TSP into another eligible retirement plan).

When considering the part CSRS or FERS will play in supplying your retirement income, some essential questions to ask include:

  • How much money will I need for the retirement lifestyle I envision?
  • Will my defined benefit plan provide the necessary income stream?
  • What amount should I contribute to a TSP to pursue the retirement income I desire?
  • (For FERS members) What will my monthly Social Security benefit be at retirement? Will this plus my defined benefit be enough to retire on?
  • At what age can I retire with the income I desire?

We’re ready to help you determine the answers to these questions and make retirement income planning part of a comprehensive financial plan to help you pursue your goals. To learn more, contact a trusted First Command Financial Advisor today.

This description is provided for informational purposes only. First Command Financial Services, Inc. and its related entities are not affiliated with, authorized to sell or represent on behalf of, or otherwise endorsed by the federal employee benefits programs referenced on this web site or by the U.S. government or U.S. armed forces.

  1. Life Stage Solutions
    1. Starting Out »
    2. Building Up »
    3. Staying the Course »
    4. Finding Balance »
    5. Breaking Free »
  2. for Military Professionals
    1. Financial Readiness
      for Mobility »
    2. Preparing for PCS »
    3. Financial Readiness
      for Post-Military Life »
    4. Transitioning your TSP »
  3. for Federal Employees
    1. Federal Retirement Programs
      (CSRS and FERS) »
    2. Survivor Benefits »
    3. Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) »
    4. Federal Employees Group
      Life Insurance (FEGLI) »

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