Your TSP in 2025: What to Know Before Year-End

Your TSP in 2025: What to Know Before Year-End

Fall is here, and that means the end of the year is fast approaching. Now is the time to check in on your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and make sure you’re taking full advantage of the opportunities available in 2025. Here’s what federal employees should keep in mind before December 31

Are You on Track with Contribution Limits?

The IRS increased TSP contribution limits again this year:

• Annual Elective Deferral: $23,500
• Catch-Up Contributions (age 50+): Additional $7,500 (total potential contributions = $31,000)
• Super Catch-Up (ages 60–63): Up to $11,250 under SECURE 2.0, depending on whether your plan adopts this provision If you haven’t updated your contribution elections, there’s still time.

Remember—contributions are spread across your remaining pay periods, so waiting until the very end of the year could mean missing out on the maximum.

Tip: Log into your TSP account to check if you’re on pace to reach your target. Even a small increase now can help you maximize your retirement savings for 2025.

Mid-Year Investment Checkup

The TSP continues to offer the same core funds:

• C Fund: S&P 500 stock index
• S Fund: U.S. small/mid-cap stock index
• I Fund: International stock index
• F Fund: U.S. bond index
• G Fund: Government securities
• L Funds: Target-date funds that automatically adjust over time

You also still have access to the TSP Mutual Fund Window, which provides more investment choices but often comes with higher fees. Ask yourself:

• Is your mix of funds still aligned with your retirement timeline?
• Has your risk tolerance changed this year?
• Would a Lifecycle Fund simplify things for you?

A quick review now helps prevent unpleasant surprises later.

Plan Ahead for Taxes

Whether you’re contributing to traditional (pre-tax) or Roth (after-tax) TSP, your decisions this year impact both your 2025 taxes and your retirement strategy.

• Traditional contributions lower your taxable income today.
• Roth contributions grow tax-free, which can provide flexibility later.
• Nearing retirement? Consider how a TSP rollover to an IRA or a Roth conversion strategy might fit into your 2026 plan.

The Bottom Line

There’s still time in 2025 to get the most out of your TSP. By checking your contribution levels, reviewing your investment mix, and planning ahead for taxes, you can finish the year strong and start 2026 with confidence.

Not sure what adjustments make sense for your situation? We’d be glad to walk you through the options and help make sure your TSP is working as hard as you are.