rcozby wrote:Jamters wrote:Keep in mind also that to participate in the $6,000 catch up (50+) you have to contribute the max of $18,000 in traditional and there is no matching funds in catch up - but for me it's a godsend.
I don't think Jamters meant Traditional in that sense. Rather, you need to contribute the max to TSP, whether Roth or Traditional, before you can take advantage of the CUC. It just makes sense.
Thanks rcozby. I wasn't as clear as I should have been. I was a contractor for six years before getting a civilian job last year. Previous employer was a 'lowest bid winner' so they paid bare bones (literally gave $20 pizza coupons for year-end bonuses for four years). I lost out on being able to contribute to any retirement for those years so the $18k max and $6k catch up has proven to be a lifesaver.