1. What is the FERS Retirement Calculation?

The Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) annuity is calculated using your high-3 average salary and years of creditable service. This basic annuity forms one part of your three-part FERS retirement benefit.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard FERS formula:

Where:

• High-3 — Your highest average basic pay over any 3 consecutive years
• Years of Service — Your total creditable federal service

Note: For those retiring at age 62 or later with 20+ years of service, the multiplier increases to 1.1%.

3. Importance of FERS Calculation

Details: Understanding your potential FERS annuity helps in retirement planning and determining when you can afford to retire. It's one component of your three-part FERS retirement (Basic Benefit, Social Security, and TSP).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your estimated high-3 average salary in USD and your total years of federal service (including partial years as decimals). The calculator assumes standard 1% multiplier.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What counts toward my high-3 salary?
A: Your basic pay (before deductions) over any 3 consecutive years of highest earnings, including locality pay but not bonuses or overtime.

Q2: How is part-time service calculated?
A: Part-time service counts fully toward eligibility but the annuity calculation is prorated based on your part-time schedule.

Q3: What's the maximum annuity?
A: The maximum annuity is 80% of your high-3 average salary (requires 41 years and 11 months of service at standard 1.0% rate).

Q4: Are there reductions for early retirement?
A: Yes, if you retire under MRA+10 (before age 62), your annuity may be reduced by 5% per year you're under 62.

Q5: How does the 1.1% multiplier work?
A: If you retire at age 62+ with 20+ years of service, the multiplier increases to 1.1% for all years of service.