Retirement
Forms & Publications.
Every OPM, IRS, and TSP form you need for federal retirement — retirement applications, beneficiary designations, direct deposit, death benefits, refund of deductions, and more. All links go directly to official agency sources.
No corrections on forms
Many agencies now refuse retirement application forms with corrections or white-out. Type carefully or complete online and reprint if errors occur.
Submit early — avoid delays
Submitting your retirement application several months before your planned date reduces processing delays significantly. Both personnel and payroll offices must verify your record.
Always use the current version
Verify you have the latest version of every form at opm.gov/forms before completing. Previous editions are often not accepted.
Retirement Applications
Start hereWhere to send your application
If you are still employed, submit your application to your agency personnel office — the earlier the better.
If you have been separated for more than 30 days, submit directly to OPM: Retirement Operations Center, P.O. Box 45, Boyers, PA 16017
Beneficiary Designations
Critical — review theseLife Insurance (FEGLI)
At retirementDeath Benefits
For survivorsRefunds, Deposits & Service Credit
Deductions & militaryDisability & Veterans Preference
Special programsSocial Security & IRS
Tax & SS formsDirect Deposit (SF-1199A)
Banking changesTo set up or change your annuity direct deposit, OPM needs your bank's routing number and your account number. You have four options:
TSP Forms
Online preferredMost TSP forms can now be completed and submitted online. Sign in at tsp.gov to access your account and complete forms without mailing paper. For the complete TSP forms library:
Key Publications
Reference guidesCSRS & FERS Retirement System Handbook
Tax Guide to U.S. Civil Service Retirement Benefits
Pension and Annuity Income — tax treatment
Distributions from Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs)
General Rule for Pensions and Annuities
All IRS Publications Index — select the most current version of any publication
Retirement date vs. date of final separation — don't confuse these
Your retirement date is the day after your date of final separation. If your last day worked is December 31st, your retirement date is January 1st. Retiring at the end of a pay period or leave year can impact your annual leave lump-sum payment, COLA eligibility, and your first annuity check timing. See the COLA and retirement date guide for details.