You are eligible for disability retirement after completion of 18 months of creditable civilian service. Certain survivor benefits are payable after completion of 18 months of creditable civilian service. Other benefits require completion of 10 years of creditable service. 18 Months Creditable Civilian Service - A surviving spouse is eligible for the Basic Employee Death Benefit. This benefit pays a set amount plus an amount equal to the higher of one-half of the employee's final salary or high three average pay.
Qualified children are eligible for a monthly annuity.
If the employee dies in service, the surviving spouse would be eligible for the Basic Death Benefit described above, plus a monthly annuity. Qualified children are eligible for a monthly annuity. The TSP is a defined contribution plan similar to the 401K plans offered in the private sector. Contributions are made by payroll deduction. Both the money that is contributed and the interest earned are tax-deferred.