Eligibility
There are five categories of benefits under the Civil Service Retirement System
(CSRS). Eligibility is based on your age and the number of years of creditable
service and any other special requirements. In addition, you must have served
in a position subject to CSRS coverage for one of the last two years before
your retirement. If you meet one of the following sets of requirements, you
may be eligible for an immediate retirement benefit. An immediate annuity is
one that begins within 30 days after your separation.
Optional | Special Optional
| Early Optional | Discontinued
Service | Disability
Optional
If you leave Federal service before you meet the age and service requirements
for an immediate retirement benefit, you may be eligible for deferred retirement
benefits. To be eligible, you must have at least 5 years of creditable civilian
service and be age 62.
Age |
Years of Service |
62 |
5 |
60 |
20 |
55 |
30 |
Special Optional
Age |
Years of Service |
50 |
20 |
Any Age |
25 |
Early Optional
Special Requirements: You must retire under special provisions
for air traffic controllers or law enforcement and firefighter personnel. Air
traffic controllers can also retire at any age with 25 years of service as an
air traffic controller.
Age |
Years of Service |
50 |
20 |
Any Age |
25 |
Discontinued Service
Special Requirements: Your agency must be undergoing a major
reorganization, reduction-in-force, or transfer of function determined by the
Office of Personnel Management. Your annuity is reduced if you are under age
55.
Age |
Years of Service |
50 |
20 |
Any Age |
25 |
Disability
Special Requirements: Your separation is involuntary and not
a removal for misconduct or delinquency.
Age |
Years of Service |
Any Age |
5 |
Special Requirements: You must be disabled for useful and
efficient service in your current position and any other vacant position at
the same grade or pay level within your commuting area and current agency for
which you are qualified. The disability must have onset prior to retirement
and should be expected to last for at least one year.