The number of years you need to work for the federal government to retire varies significantly depending on your age, the type of retirement you are seeking, and specific circumstances. There isn't a single, fixed number, but rather a set of eligibility requirements under the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS).
Understanding Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) Eligibility
FERS is a three-tiered retirement plan that includes Social Security benefits, a FERS Basic Benefit Plan, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Eligibility for the FERS Basic Benefit, which determines the minimum years of service, depends on several factors. Below are the key requirements for different types of FERS retirement:
Summary of FERS Retirement Eligibility
| Type of Retirement | Age | Years of Service |
|---|---|---|
| Optional (Voluntary) | MRA | 30 |
| 60 | 20 | |
| 62 | 5 | |
| Early Out (Voluntary) | 50 | 20 |
| Any | 25 | |
| Discontinued Service (Involuntary) | 50 | 20 |
| Any | 25 | |
| Disability | Any | 18 months |
Here's a breakdown of each category:
- Minimum Retirement Age (MRA): Your MRA is determined by your birth year. It typically ranges from 55 to 57.
Optional (Voluntary) Retirement
This is the most common form of retirement, allowing employees to retire based on their age and years of service.
- MRA with 30 Years of Service: If you have reached your Minimum Retirement Age (MRA) and have accumulated 30 years of creditable federal service, you are eligible for an immediate voluntary retirement.
- Age 60 with 20 Years of Service: Federal employees who are at least 60 years old and have completed 20 years of service can retire voluntarily.
- Age 62 with 5 Years of Service: The minimum service requirement for an immediate voluntary retirement drops to just 5 years if you are 62 years of age or older.
Early Out (Voluntary) Retirement
An "Early Out" retirement is generally offered by agencies during periods of restructuring or downsizing, providing an incentive for employees to retire earlier than usual.
- Age 50 with 20 Years of Service: You may be eligible for an early out if you are at least 50 years old and have 20 years of service.
- Any Age with 25 Years of Service: If you have 25 years of service, you might be eligible for an early out regardless of your age, provided your agency offers it.
Discontinued Service (Involuntary) Retirement
This type of retirement applies when an employee is involuntarily separated from federal service due to reasons such as a reduction in force (RIF) or agency reorganization, provided they meet certain age and service requirements.
- Age 50 with 20 Years of Service: If you are involuntarily separated and are at least 50 years old with 20 years of service, you may be eligible.
- Any Age with 25 Years of Service: You might also qualify if you have 25 years of service, regardless of your age, following an involuntary separation.
Disability Retirement
Federal employees who become disabled and are unable to perform their job duties may be eligible for disability retirement.
- Any Age with 18 Months of Service: This option has the lowest service requirement. If you become totally disabled for useful and efficient service in your current position, you may apply for disability retirement after completing just 18 months of creditable civilian service.
For more detailed information on FERS eligibility and benefits, you can refer to official government resources such as those provided by agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
