Why More Federal Workers Are Reassessing Their TSP Withdrawal Strategies to Maximize Their Savings

darlene jenkins
July 17, 2025

Key Takeaways

Adjusting your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) withdrawal strategy can help maximize your retirement savings while minimizing tax burdens.
Understanding current options and tax laws empowers you to make informed decisions tailored to your financial goals.

Rethinking TSP Withdrawals: Why It Matters

Your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is more than just a retirement account—it’s a key part of your future financial security. As federal workers approach retirement, the way they choose to withdraw from their TSP can significantly impact their overall savings and lifestyle. Reevaluating your withdrawal strategy isn’t just smart—it’s essential to ensure you’re getting the most out of your hard-earned contributions.

Understanding TSP Basics

Before diving into strategies, it’s important to understand what your TSP offers. This defined contribution plan provides federal employees with tax-deferred growth, employer matching (for FERS employees), and investment options to suit varying risk tolerances. Once you’ve retired or are eligible for withdrawals, you can access your funds through different methods—each with its own implications for taxes, growth potential, and flexibility.

The Standard Withdrawal Options

Federal retirees have several ways to access their TSP funds. Each comes with pros and cons that may influence your decision:

1. Installment Payments

You can opt for monthly, quarterly, or annual installment payments. These fixed withdrawals provide a consistent income stream and can be adjusted as your needs change. However, installment payments require careful planning to avoid depleting your balance too quickly.

2. Single Lump-Sum Payment

This method provides all your savings at once. While it may seem tempting, withdrawing a large sum in one year could push you into a higher tax bracket, resulting in a substantial tax bill.

3. Partial Withdrawals

If you want to take out money as needed, partial withdrawals allow flexibility. They’re great for unexpected expenses but require ongoing management to avoid undermining your long-term savings.

4. Annuities

You can convert your TSP balance into an annuity to guarantee a fixed income for life. This option ensures stability but comes with reduced flexibility and often limits access to any remaining funds.

Factors Influencing Withdrawal Choices

Taxes: The Biggest Factor

TSP withdrawals are taxable income, except for Roth TSP contributions, which are tax-free if conditions are met. Consider:

Tax Brackets: Large withdrawals could bump you into a higher tax bracket.
State Taxes: State tax policies vary; some exempt TSP income while others tax it fully.

Age Considerations

Your age determines key rules for accessing your funds:

Before Age 59½: Early withdrawals face a 10% IRS penalty unless exceptions apply.
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): Starting at age 73, you must withdraw a minimum amount annually or face a hefty penalty.

Market Performance

Leaving your money in the TSP longer allows it to grow. However, market volatility could impact the value of your balance, making timing and withdrawal amounts critical decisions.

Popular Withdrawal Strategies for 2025

1. The Bucket Strategy

This approach divides your TSP savings into different “buckets” for short-term, medium-term, and long-term needs. For example:

Bucket 1: Cash or low-risk investments for immediate income.
Bucket 2: Moderate-risk assets for expenses 5-10 years out.
Bucket 3: Growth-focused investments for longer-term needs.

By segmenting your funds, you reduce the risk of drawing from investments during market downturns.

2. Roth Conversion Ladder

Converting traditional TSP funds to a Roth IRA in increments can spread out your tax liability. Since Roth IRAs grow tax-free, this strategy may save money in the long run while offering greater flexibility.

3. Blending Installments and Partial Withdrawals

A combination approach—using fixed installment payments for predictable income while reserving partial withdrawals for unexpected needs—provides both stability and adaptability.

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring RMDs

Failing to meet your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) could result in a 25% penalty on the amount not withdrawn. Planning withdrawals ahead of time ensures compliance and minimizes financial surprises.

2. Withdrawing Too Much Too Soon

Overdrawing in your early retirement years may leave you short in later years. It’s vital to balance immediate needs with long-term sustainability.

3. Not Accounting for Inflation

While your TSP funds grow, so do costs of living. Ensure your withdrawal strategy includes adjustments for inflation to maintain purchasing power over time.

Maximizing Tax Efficiency

Being tax-savvy with your TSP withdrawals can significantly enhance your retirement savings. Here are some tips:

1. Time Your Withdrawals Wisely

Strategic timing can reduce your tax burden. For example, withdrawing more in low-income years can help you stay in a lower tax bracket.

2. Use Tax Diversification

If you have both traditional and Roth TSP contributions, use the Roth portion for tax-free withdrawals in higher-income years.

3. Delay Social Security

Delaying Social Security benefits until age 70 increases your monthly payment and may allow you to withdraw less from your TSP, reducing taxable income.

Leveraging Professional Advice

Retirement planning is complex, and a misstep could cost you thousands. Consulting a financial advisor with federal retirement expertise can:

Help you navigate tax laws.
Provide tailored strategies for your unique goals.
Offer insights into coordinating TSP withdrawals with other retirement benefits like Social Security and FEHB.

Coordinating TSP with Other Benefits

Your TSP doesn’t exist in isolation. To maximize its value, coordinate it with other benefits:

1. Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB)

Many retirees pair TSP withdrawals with FEHB to cover healthcare costs. Evaluate how much to allocate toward premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.

2. Social Security

Using your TSP strategically can complement Social Security, especially if you delay benefits for higher payouts.

3. Pension Income

For FERS retirees, combining pension income with TSP withdrawals ensures a balanced cash flow.

Staying Informed

Federal policies and tax laws change regularly, making it critical to stay informed. Keep an eye on updates regarding:

TSP withdrawal rules.
Changes to RMD ages or thresholds.
New retirement-related tax provisions.

Joining webinars, reading TSP updates, and participating in retirement planning seminars can help you make better decisions.

Adapting to Your Needs

Your TSP withdrawal strategy isn’t set in stone. Life changes—such as a new health condition, relocation, or market shifts—may require adjustments. Review your plan annually and make updates as needed.

Questions to Ask Annually

Are my withdrawals sustainable?
Has my tax situation changed?
Am I on track with my financial goals?

Flexibility is key to navigating the uncertainties of retirement.

Maximize Your Retirement Savings

Your Thrift Savings Plan is one of your most valuable assets as a federal worker. By reassessing your withdrawal strategy, you ensure that it aligns with your financial goals, tax obligations, and long-term needs. Make the most of your TSP to enjoy a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Darlene Jenkins

Darlene Jenkins began her successful career as an Insurance and Retirement Strategist in 1990 after leaving her federal career. Darlene is a certified Estate Plan advisor and Medicare specialist. She has committed herself to ensuring employees are educated and informed about their benefits and how their benefits play an integral part in their financial planning. “My strong belief in education and planning has been the foundation of my clients’ success.”