Military Benefits and Federal Retirement: Answers for Current and Retired Employees

Navigating federal retirement can feel complex, especially when it comes to paperwork. With so many forms, documents, and rules, it’s easy to miss a step. This guide helps you identify, locate, and complete every essential form for a smooth and timely transition, whether you are preparing to retire soon or have already completed federal service.

What Are Federal Retirement Forms?

Definition and Purpose

Federal retirement forms are official documents you complete to claim benefits after a career in federal service. These forms communicate your retirement date, service history, and preferences for your benefits and survivor elections. Their main purpose is to ensure the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and other relevant offices have accurate information for processing your retirement and ongoing payments.

Who Needs to Complete These Forms?

Anyone leaving federal service under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), or a related program needs to submit these forms. This includes employees planning voluntary or disability retirement, as well as those transitioning from deferred retirement or military service combined with civilian years. Retirees may also use certain forms to change benefits after retirement, such as updating bank deposits or tax withholding preferences.

Which Forms Are Required in 2026?

Overview for FERS and CSRS Employees

For those under FERS or CSRS, retirement begins with the right application. In 2026, the primary forms remain:

• SF 3107 (Application for Immediate Retirement) for FERS employees
• SF 2801 (Application for Immediate Retirement) for CSRS employees

Additional forms may be needed depending on your service history, such as military buyback forms, documentation of prior civilian service, or requests for alternative annuity options.

Key Documents for TSP Withdrawals

If you plan to access your Thrift Savings Plan upon retirement, key forms include:

• TSP-99 (Withdrawal Request for Separated and Beneficiary Participants)
• TSP-70 (Request for Full Withdrawal)
• TSP-77 (Request for Partial Withdrawal)

Each of these forms requires proof of separation and verification of identity, so be sure to keep your personnel records up to date to speed up the process.

How Do I Find the Right Forms?

Locating Forms on Official Government Sites

Most major federal retirement forms are available online from official sources. For retirement and annuity processing, the best place to start is the Office of Personnel Management’s website (opm.gov/forms). For Thrift Savings Plan forms, use tsp.gov/forms. Always make sure you are using the latest version; forms are updated periodically.

Requesting Paper Copies if Needed

If you do not have reliable internet access or prefer paper forms, your agency’s Human Resources office can provide official printed copies. Retired employees may also request forms by mail directly from OPM or the TSP Service Office. Make your request early to accommodate mailing times, especially if you have a planned retirement date.

What Supporting Documents Are Needed?

Proof of Service Documentation

To establish eligibility, most retirement applications require accompanying proof of federal service. Common forms of proof include:

• Certified Summary of Federal Service (SF 3107-1 or SF 2801-1)
• Notification of Personnel Action (SF 50) showing key career events
• Military service records (DD-214) if you are combining service

Ensuring this documentation is complete and accurate will save time and prevent follow-up requests.

Identification and Beneficiary Forms

Both active and retired employees need to provide valid government-issued identification (such as a driver’s license or passport copy). Many forms also require you to name beneficiaries for your annuity, unpaid compensation, or TSP balance. The beneficiary designation forms—like SF 2823 for life insurance or TSP-3 for TSP—must match your current wishes and be on file to ensure benefits go where you intend.

When Should Retirement Forms Be Submitted?

Official Deadlines and Processing Timelines

It’s best to submit your basic retirement application (SF 3107 or SF 2801) two to three months before your planned retirement date. This window gives your agency time to validate your records and forward the package to OPM. The TSP will process withdrawal forms only after you separate from service and your status updates in the personnel system. Expect OPM to take one to three months to finalize benefits, depending on documentation completeness and agency responsiveness.

Early Submission vs. Waiting Periods

Submitting forms early is helpful, but be aware that some documents—like TSP withdrawal or health benefits changes—can only be processed once official separation is confirmed. Do not submit these forms before leaving federal service, or they may be returned or delayed.

What Happens If a Form Is Missing?

Possible Delays and Resolution Steps

Missing forms or required documents are the most common causes of retirement processing delays. OPM or TSP will notify you (in writing) if anything is missing or unclear. This typically pauses the review of your application until you provide the requested materials. Delays can mean a temporary gap before you receive your first annuity check or TSP withdrawal.

How to Correct Submission Errors

If you learn that a document is missing or incorrect, respond promptly to official requests. Follow the instructions in the correspondence, and keep a personal copy of everything you submit. Many minor errors (like unsigned pages or incorrect dates) can be fixed by sending a corrected form or providing clarification.

Tips for Completing Federal Retirement Forms

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Leaving required fields blank or unsigned
• Using outdated forms or documents
• Failing to include supporting evidence, like SF 50s or beneficiary forms
• Entering inconsistent dates or service periods

Ensuring Accuracy on All Submissions

Always review your completed forms for errors and double-check that your service history matches supporting documents. It’s helpful to organize your forms in a folder and create a checklist for all items before submission. Consider making personal copies of every completed form and supporting document for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Submit Forms Electronically?

Some retirement forms can now be submitted online, either through your federal agency’s HR platform or directly at OPM’s Retirement Services Online portal. TSP forms may also be completed and submitted electronically through tsp.gov, provided you have an online account and identity verification in place. Not all forms are eligible for digital submission, so check each form’s instructions first.

How Do I Check My Application Status?

Once you submit your retirement application, you can track its progress by contacting your agency’s HR office before separation, or by calling OPM after your case is assigned. The TSP offers online account tracking for withdrawal forms and disbursement updates. Keep your contact information current and check your mail for official updates or requests from these offices.

Resources for Federal Employees

Where to Get Additional Guidance

OPM, TSP, and your agency’s Human Resources office are your best sources for clear, up-to-date information about retirement forms and processing. Both OPM and TSP maintain detailed FAQ pages and downloadable guides to assist with every step.

Official Contact Information

• Office of Personnel Management (OPM): opm.gov/retirement-services/contact/
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): tsp.gov/contact/
• Your agency’s HR Office: Refer to your agency directory or internal web portal for direct lines and email addresses

By understanding the required paperwork and deadlines, you can reduce stress and help ensure your federal retirement benefits arrive without unnecessary delays.