Who should use this calculator?
Each year the IRS determines the maximum amount you can contribute to tax-deferred savings plans like the TSP. This is known as the IRS elective deferral limit. Participants should use this calculator to determine the specific dollar amount to be deducted each pay period in order to maximize your contributions and, if you are a FERS employee, to ensure that you do not miss out on Agency Matching Contributions.
Special Note for FERS Employees
This calculator is especially important for FERS employees. If you reach the IRS elective deferral limit before the end of the year, your contributions and Agency Matching Contributions must stop for the remainder of the year. As a result, you will lose some of their Agency Matching Contributions. For more detailed information, read the Fact Sheet Annual Limit on Elective Deferrals.
The dollar amount determined by using this calculator distributes your employee contributions over the entire year (or remainder of the year), and thus allows you to receive the maximum Agency Matching Contributions.