Military Service Earnings: Buy Back Estimator

Take those certified earnings to your federal agency's HR/Benefits office.

If you served on active duty and now work for the federal government, "buying back" your military time is often the best investment you’ll ever make. By paying a small percentage of your military base pay into the civilian retirement system, you can add those years of service directly to your federal pension. military service earnings buy back estimator

Since there is no "official" instant calculator (you must request your via Form RI 20-97), you can use this simple manual formula to estimate your cost and benefit. Step 1: Estimate Your Cost (The "Deposit") Take those certified earnings to your federal agency's

Add up your total (ignore BAH/BAS) for your entire military career. Multiply that total by .03 (3%). Since there is no "official" instant calculator (you

Whether you're finishing up a military career or you've already transitioned to the federal civil service, "buying back" your military time can significantly boost your FERS or CSRS pension.

Generally 3% of your total military base pay (plus interest if you wait too long).