If you’re a current or former federal employee, accessing your retirement or pension account online is crucial for staying on top of your benefits. Whether you’re checking your service history, monitoring contributions, or reviewing annuity payments, knowing how to log in and navigate the appropriate portals can save time and ensure financial peace of mind.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through how to access your federal retirement or pension account online—whether you’re under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), or another federal retirement plan.
What You Need to Know Before Logging In
- Your Social Security Number (SSN)
- Your retirement claim number (if already retired)
- A valid email address
- Access to your Security Questions/Answers (if previously set)
- A reliable internet connection and a secure browser
Step-by-Step Guide to Access Your Federal Retirement Account
1. Determine Your Retirement System
- FERS (Federal Employees Retirement System): For federal employees hired after 1984.
- CSRS (Civil Service Retirement System): For those hired before 1984.
- Uniformed Services: Accessed via different military portals.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Supplemental retirement savings for federal employees.
Not sure? Check your SF-50 personnel form or contact your agency’s HR office.
2. Access Your Account via OPM Services Online
If you’re retired, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Services Online is your primary portal.
Visit: https://www.servicesonline.opm.gov/
Here’s how to log in:
- Go to the OPM Services Online site.
- Enter your claim number (usually begins with “A” and includes 7 digits).
- Enter your password.
- If it’s your first time, click “Forgot Password” to receive a temporary one via mail or email.
Once logged in, you can:
- View/print annuity statements
- Change your direct deposit info
- Update mailing address
- Request a duplicate 1099-R tax form
- Manage federal and state tax withholding
3. Access Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Online
If you’re checking on your TSP account, go to:
TSP Login Page: https://www.tsp.gov/
To log in:
- Click “My Account” at the top right.
- Use your TSP account number or username.
- Enter your password.
- Complete two-step authentication (code sent via text or email).
First-time users must set up an account by verifying identity and linking a secure email.
With TSP Online, you can:
- View balance and investment allocations
- Change contributions or investments
- Start withdrawals
- Designate beneficiaries
4. For Current Federal Employees: Use GRB Platform or Agency Portals
If you are currently employed, your agency may use the GRB Platform (formerly Employee Benefits Information System or EBIS).
How to Access:
- Log into your agency’s HR portal (e.g., GRB Platform for Department of Defense).
- Use CAC (Common Access Card) or secure login credentials.
- Navigate to Retirement Planning or Benefits Summary.
From there, you can:
- Estimate retirement eligibility
- Run pension estimates
- Update personal information
Not all agencies use GRB; check with your HR department.
5. For Military or Uniformed Services Retirement Accounts
Retired military personnel can access retirement information via MyPay or Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS).
Visit: https://mypay.dfas.mil/
Log in using your DoD CAC, username/password, or Login.gov credentials.
From MyPay, you can:
- View pay statements
- Update direct deposit
- Download tax documents
Common Issues & Fixes
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Forgot password | Use “Forgot Password” option on OPM or TSP site |
| Don’t know claim number | Look at your retirement paperwork or call OPM at 1-888-767-6738 |
| Locked out of account | Call the support line or wait 24 hours before retrying |
| First-time login problems | Check if you’re using the correct portal for your retirement system |
Security Tip: Use Login.gov or ID.me Where Available
Many federal systems are migrating to Login.gov or ID.me for enhanced identity verification. You may be prompted to create or link one of these accounts when accessing retirement services in 2025.
- Login.gov: https://login.gov/
- ID.me: https://www.id.me/
These systems offer two-factor authentication and secure access to multiple federal services from one account.
FAQ
Q: I’m not retired yet. Can I still check my retirement benefits?
A: Yes. Current employees can use their agency’s HR portal or the GRB Platform to estimate future retirement benefits.
Q: Can I access my federal pension account from a mobile device?
A: Yes. OPM and TSP websites are mobile-friendly, and some agencies have dedicated mobile apps or portals.
Q: What should I do if my information looks incorrect?
A: Contact your agency’s HR or OPM’s retirement services center to verify and correct your records.
Q: How do I contact OPM for help?
A: Call 1-888-767-6738 or use the OPM Retirement Services Contact Form.
Q: How often should I check my retirement account?
A: At least once per quarter to ensure your payments, contact information, and tax preferences are accurate.
Conclusion
Accessing your federal retirement or pension account online in 2025 is easier than ever—if you know where to go. Whether you’re retired and using OPM Services Online, managing your TSP investments, or still planning your future through agency portals, staying
