The TSP agency match is generally up to 5% of basic pay , but for FERS it is structured as 1% automatic agency contribution plus matching on your own contributions: 100% on the first 3% you contribute and 50% on the next 2%.

For the Roth side, the important point is that the match itself goes to the Traditional TSP , even if your own contributions are going into Roth TSP.

How it works

  • If you contribute 0%, the agency still puts in 1%.
  • If you contribute 3%, the total agency contribution is 4%: 1% automatic plus 3% matching.
  • If you contribute 5%, you get the full match: 1% automatic plus 4% matching, for 5% from the agency total.
  • Contributions above 5% do not increase the match.

Roth detail

Your Roth TSP contributions are after-tax, but the employer match is still deposited to the Traditional TSP and is taxed later when withdrawn.

Simple example

If your basic pay is $100,000 and you contribute 5% to Roth TSP, you put in $5,000, and the agency adds up to $5,000 more in the Traditional side if you are under FERS and otherwise eligible.

One caution

The match rules can depend on your employment system and whether you are eligible for matching contributions, so it is worth checking your employee benefits page if you are not sure.