Financial Services & Education for Government Employees

FERS is the primary retirement system for U.S. federal civilian employees. It combines benefits from three main sources—a Basic Benefit Plan, Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)—to provide flexibility, stability, and long-term financial security.

The CSRS is the predecessor to FERS and covers most federal employees hired before 1984. It provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits, with a structure that typically excludes participation in Social Security.

FEGLI is the life insurance program available to federal employees and retirees. It offers a basic level of coverage, along with optional additional insurance that can be customized according to your salary, needs, and family circumstances.

The FEHB Program offers comprehensive health insurance options for both active and retired federal workers. Participants can choose from a wide range of plans to find the right coverage for their healthcare needs.

Certain federal roles—such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, and air traffic controllers—have a required retirement age due to the physical and mental demands of the work. The specific age varies by position.

In specific situations, such as agency downsizing or restructuring, federal employees may be offered early retirement opportunities. These programs enable employees to retire before reaching the typical eligibility age—often without incurring early retirement penalties.

Federal employees covered under FERS are eligible to contribute to and receive Social Security benefits. Those under CSRS generally do not, although some exceptions may apply depending on their service history and other factors.

The Survivor Benefit Plan enables retired federal employees to ensure a continued income for their spouse or eligible dependent after their passing by designating a portion of their retirement benefit as survivor protection.

The Thrift Savings Plan operates similarly to a private-sector 401(k) plan. It’s a tax-deferred investment and savings plan designed for federal employees, offering a range of funds with different levels of risk and potential return to support your long-term goals.