Frequently Asked Questions| Account Access: TSP Account Numbers |
| Frequently Asked Questions |
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1. Why did the TSP change to account numbers? 
The TSP introduced the new account numbers to reduce the exposure of the participant’s Social Security number, which could be compromised and used for identity theft purposes. They’re 13 digits long in order to ensure uniqueness.
2. What is the difference between my TSP account number and my Web password and ThriftLine PIN?
TSP account numbers, Web passwords, and ThriftLine Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) are all used to keep your account information secure. Your TSP account number, which replaces your Social Security number as the TSP’s primary means of identifying your account, is intended to help protect you from identity theft. Your Web password and ThriftLine PIN provide a second level of protection when you log into the TSP Web site or the ThriftLine. While you can change or create your own Web password and/or ThriftLine PIN, your TSP account number is assigned to you by the TSP and remains the same throughout your participation in the Thrift Savings Plan.
3. Why can’t I customize my account number?
TSP account numbers replace the Social Security number as the primary means of identifying the participant. Each account number is computer-generated to ensure that no one else has that number. This is similar to what happens when you open an account with a bank, mutual fund, utility, or credit card company. However, you may create a shorter, custom user ID to access your account on the TSP Web site.
4. Where can I find my TSP account number?
New participants receive a letter from the TSP welcoming them to the Thrift Savings Plan when their first contribution is received by the TSP. This letter contains important information about your new account, including your account number. If you were already a TSP participant on September 7, 2007, you should have received a special mailer with your TSP account number in it. Also, beginning with the quarterly participant statement ending September 30, 2007, your account number will be shown on your statements.
5. What can I do to keep my TSP account number secure?
To keep your TSP account number secure, treat it as confidentially as you would a bank account number or investment account number. Do not reveal it to anyone except an official TSP Participant Service Representative who is trying to help you answer a question about your account. Do not write it down except when asked to provide it on a TSP form or when using it to identify your account in written correspondence to the TSP. Do not store it on your computer hard drive diskette, your mobile phone, or any place where others might find it. Do not type your account number into a computer when anyone else can see what you are entering.
You should also keep your computer secure by installing anti-spyware software or similar security programs and by keeping your protection current. Do not access the TSP or any financial institution from an unprotected computer.
The TSP is not responsible for any activity in your account which is transacted by anyone other than you. For more information about ensuring your privacy and protecting yourself against fraud and identity theft, visit the Web sites www.consumer.gov/idtheft and www.onguardonline.gov.
6. Can I change my TSP account number?
No. Your TSP account number replaces your Social Security number as the TSP’s primary means of identifying you. Like your Social Security number or other financial account numbers, it cannot be changed. However, if an unusual circumstance occurs that causes you concern about the security of your account, you should contact the TSP immediately.
7. What if I have forgotten my TSP account number?
If you forget your TSP account number, you can use the TSP Web site to request that your account number be mailed to you again. You can also contact a TSP Participant Service Representative and make that request. For security reasons, the TSP does not give out account numbers via e-mail or over the telephone. You can also find your account number on your participant statements beginning in October 2007.
The TSP will mail your account number to you at your address in the TSP record. So, if your address has changed, you need to make sure the TSP has your new address. If you are still employed, you must report the change to your agency or service, which will, in turn, report it to the TSP. If you are separated from service, you should report your change of address directly to the TSP.
8. Will I have the same TSP account number for both my civilian and uniformed services TSP accounts?
Yes. The TSP will use the same account number for both your civilian and uniformed services TSP accounts.
9. Do I need my TSP account number to put money into my TSP account?
No. To start, change, or stop contributions to your TSP account, you must submit the TSP Election Form (TSP-1 for civilian participants; TSP-U-1 for members of the uniformed services) directly to your agency or service. That form requires that you provide your Social Security number, rather than your TSP account number, because your agency or service does not know your TSP account number and needs your Social Security number to identify you. Your agency or service may also require you to make changes electronically via its Web site (e.g., Employee Express or myPay).
10. How can I view my account number on the Account Access screen?
To help keep your account number secure when you log into the Account Access screen, the Web displays asterisks or bullets to mask the numbers you type in. However, if you want to see the actual numbers you are entering, you can do so by clicking on the "Unmasked" tab above the area where you type in your account number.