Separate elective deferral limits, catch-up eligibility, and BRS matching when planning TSP contributions.
Reviewed September 28, 2026
For 2026, the elective deferral limit for most employer plans is $24,500. Age-based catch-up limits differ, and special Roth catch-up rules apply to some higher-wage participants. Check current TSP guidance before setting payroll elections.
Under the Blended Retirement System, a service member generally needs to contribute at least 5% of basic pay to receive the full service matching contribution, subject to plan rules and eligibility. Automatic contributions and matching have their own vesting/timing rules.
Divide the planned annual contribution by remaining pay periods and confirm the percentage fits the TSP payroll rules. A calculator projection is not a guarantee of match; review the TSP account and LES after changes.