Q. I’m considering resigning from federal service because I’ve been unable to find a federal job at my husband’s new job location across the country. I have career status with 18 years of total federal service, six of which was bought back military time. I was born in 1959, so my minimum retirement age is 56; I’m 53 now. If I resign now with the intention of taking a deferred annuity when I reach 62, do I do anything in the process of separating that might affect my ability to return to the federal workforce? It’s my understanding that I don’t apply for the deferred retirement until I’m ready to receive it.
A. No, you don’t need to do anything when you separate. Based on your creditable service, you will receive a deferred retirement at age 62 if you don’t take a refund of your retirement contributions. To avoid delays, apply for the deferred annuity several months before your 62nd birthday.
