Understanding Mandatory Retirement Ages for Federal Employees
For most federal employees covered under FERS, there is no mandatory retirement age — you can continue working as long as you choose. However, certain positions have mandatory retirement ages that require you to leave federal service at a specific age.
Positions with Mandatory Retirement Ages
Several federal occupations have mandatory retirement ages set by law:
Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs): Must retire at age 57 if they have 20 years of qualifying service, or at age 57 if they have not yet reached 20 years but have reached the mandatory retirement age. The absolute mandatory retirement age is 57.
Firefighters: Federal firefighters must retire at age 57 if they have 20 years of qualifying service.
Air Traffic Controllers: Must retire at age 56.
Nuclear Materials Couriers: Must retire at age 57 with 20 years of service.
Minimum Retirement Age (MRA) for FERS Employees
For regular FERS employees, the Minimum Retirement Age (MRA) ranges from 55 to 57 depending on your birth year. This is the earliest age at which you can retire with an immediate, unreduced annuity (with 30 or more years of service).
Planning Around Your Retirement Age
Knowing your mandatory or minimum retirement age is essential for effective FERS retirement planning. The Spivak Financial Group helps federal employees plan for their specific retirement timeline, whether they face a mandatory retirement age or are choosing when to retire voluntarily.
Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your retirement timeline and how to maximize your FERS benefits.