Whether you're finishing up a military career or you've already transitioned to the federal civil service, "buying back" your military time can significantly boost your FERS or CSRS pension.
If you served on active duty and now work for the federal government, "buying back" your military time is often the best investment you’ll ever make. By paying a small percentage of your military base pay into the civilian retirement system, you can add those years of service directly to your federal pension. military service earnings buy back estimator
Generally 3% of your total military base pay (plus interest if you wait too long). Whether you're finishing up a military career or
Take those certified earnings to your federal agency's HR/Benefits office. Generally 3% of your total military base pay
If you have 4 years of military service and a final federal salary of $100k, buying back that time adds $4,000 every single year to your pension for the rest of your life.
Take your projected federal (the average of your 3 highest-earning years). Multiply that by .01 (1%). Multiply that result by your Years of Military Service .
You have a 3-year grace period from your federal start date before interest begins to accrue on the buy-back amount. Start the paperwork early to save thousands in interest! 🧮 Military Service Earnings Buy-Back Estimator