CSRS and FERS both provide survivor benefits, but the benefits offered by the two plans differ greatly. Surviving spouses must meet certain age and length of marriage requirements in order to qualify for benefits. You can elect benefits for a spouse you marry after retirement under both FERS and CSRS. The rules for who is eligible for survivor benefits are the same for FERS Basic Benefits and CSRS. Also, under both CSRS and FERS, your Thrift Savings Plan account will be available to your designated survivor.
As a general rule, surviving spouses who will receive a substantial spousal Social Security benefit will be better protected by FERS. You must have 10 years of service before your spouse can receive a survivor annuity under FERS. Surviving spouses who are employed and/or earn a Social Security benefit on their own will receive greater benefits from CSRS.
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| Survivor Benefits Under CSRS and FERS |
| Social Security |
Updated 26 May 1998