TSP Center

Good points made in the article. My organization was closing and I couldn't get over a move further north for two years before optional retirement at age 55. Knew I would regret being a weekend dad for my son's last year in high school and just couldn't get past that given I’d spent so much of his life deployed or on Temporary Duty. Made a forward-looking decision and took a two-year early retirement in Jul 11 and consider it one of the greatest blessings of my life. Worked hard while I was employed, got along and received regular promotions. Ended with 33 years of service under CSRS, which provides a good annuity even with the 4% under-age reduction. Did due diligence in making TSP contributions and have a nice balance that I don't need now. The early out incentive was $16700 after taxes and was just added sweetness. Bottom line is run the calculators (FedCalc got me to within $1.30 of my final monthly annuity) and make the early out decision based on whether you think you can afford to retire, not necessarily getting the incentive. If it’s a close call and you just don‘t know, retire early and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Make the best decision and look forward!

Air Force offering more buy outs

http://federaldaily.com/articles/2012/01/04/air-force-announces-more-buyouts-early-outs.aspx?s=FD_050112