Things You'll Need:
- Internet Standard Form 2801
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Step 1
Determine your retirement eligibility at least a year before you think you want to retire. In the current Federal Retirement System (FERS), there are four kinds: Immediate, Early, Deferred and Disability. Each has its own set of rules as to what criteria must be met for retirement. There is always a minimum age (see resources below) and a minimum amount of years served in order to be considered retired at any level. For example, if you involuntarily are separated, you would be considered under Early Retirement, which has a requirement of at least 50 years of age and 20 years of service, or any age with 25 years of service.
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Step 2
Check for any additional benefits you may be eligible to receive. According to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website, there are numerous benefits you could receive in addition to your basic retirement pay. You may qualify for Thrift Savings Plan payments (the government's version of the 401k), cost of living adjustments, credit for military service or even survivor benefits. There is usually a pre-retirement counseling session that would further explain these benefits. Check with your civilian personnel office to find out where and when the next session is.
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Step 3
Submit the retirement application. This can also be obtained at the OPM website. If you've been out of federal work for more than 30 days, you have to send it directly to OPM's mailing address. If you are still working, send it to your employer. Again, make sure everything you plan to claim is in the package. Getting an amendment to your retirement pay could be a long wait. Once OPM receives the application from either you or your employer, it can take an average of five weeks before receiving your pay, which is disbursed the first business day of each month.
