What is the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)?

The Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) replaced the CSRS program January 1st, 1987. Employees in the CSRS plan at that time had the choice of staying in CSRS or transferring to FERS. Any new eligible Federal civilian employees from that date forward are covered by FERS. Benefits are delivered through a Basic Benefit Plan, Social Security and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Social Security and TSP benefits can be transferred to a new job if you leave the Federal Government before retirement. Like CSRS employees, FERS employees pay a monthly payroll contribution, and at retirement receive a monthly benefit for life.