What is the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)?
FERS is a retirement plan for government employees. The Federal Employees Retirement System went into effect on January 1, 1987. It replaces the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS). Plus, it aligns the federal retirement plans with those in private companies.
The Federal Employees Retirement System provides retirement benefits from 3 different sources:
- A FERS Basic Benefit Plan (pension plan)
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which includes FEGLI
- Social Security
The government deducts these benefit plans from your payroll. Your agency will also match or contribute its share.
With FERS, you enjoy generous benefits that far exceed what most private companies offer today. In fact, it’s known to have one of the best retirement packages available.
Let us help you understand how these 3 benefits work together.
When are you eligible for your FERS benefits?
Your age and years of service determine your eligibility. Use these charts to figure your annuity benefit.

Retirement Income for Federal Employees
Our passion is to help federal employees like you create the retirement you deserve. The more you learn about your available options now, the more prepared you’ll be when that magical day arrives.
At My Guaranteed Income, we specialize in helping federal employees plan for retirement. In fact, its founder, Jennifer Trowbridge, is a Chartered Federal Employee Benefits ConsultantSM. We can help you understand your FERS benefits. When it comes to federal benefits, one size doesn’t fit all.
Every client gets our undivided attention—from strategizing to execution to follow-up. We take an in-depth, yet simple, approach to helping you develop a strategy to address your personal goals and financial objectives.
We’re excited to show you how amazing retirement can be!
Schedule a free 30-minute strategy session to review your federal benefits.