How Does GS Employment Affect Military Retirement?

Military retirees find employment with the federal government appealing.

Many military service members retire young enough to build a second career. Obtaining a federal general schedule position that is dependable and commands a respectable wage is a common goal. Military retirees need to consider the effects of employment on their military pension.

Loss of Retirement Benefits

Prior to 1999, there was a law that required a reduction of military retirement benefits as a condition of federal employment and applied a pay cap to wages received. However, in 2000, this law was repealed. Military retirees no longer have to give up part of their wages or be subject to a pay cap to work for the federal government.

Timing of Employment

Retired service members may not hold federal employment for 180 days following their retirement date. Exceptions to this rule exist. If the Secretary of the hiring department approves an exception or if the country is in a state of national emergency, this restriction may be waived.

Hiring Practices

If a military retiree has held a career-conditional position with the federal government, he remains eligible for that preference. Even if his employment with the federal government pre-dated his military service, the preference still exists.

References

• Office of Personnel Management, Veteran's Guide
• USA Jobs, Federal Dual Employment Sheet
• Feds Hire Vets