Q. I am 45 years old. I have been working for the federal government since June 7, 1985, approximately 27 years. Our government facility is closing its doors. I was offered a job outside of our local travel area and had to turn it down due to personal reasons. Can I still qualify for discontinued service retirement? What would the penalties be? I have plenty of years but not the age. I have performed all my employment under FERS.
A. Because the position you were offered was outside your commuting area, the fact that you turned it down wouldn’t keep you from being eligible for discontinued service retirement unless you are under a geographic mobility agreement. If you are, then you wouldn’t qualify. You’ll have to verify your status and options with your personnel office.
