Q. I am going to be 53 this year. I have 32 years of federal service and would like to take the deferred retirement option. My minimum retirement age is 56. I understand I will not be entitled to special retirement supplement. My spouse retired under CSRS, and she carries our Federal Employees Health Benefits plan. When I reach my MRA, do I have to initiate the paperwork to start my FERS annuity?
A. Yes, you would be eligible for a deferred annuity at age 56. Several months before you reach that age, download a copy of Standard Form 2801, Application for Immediate Retirement, which you’ll find at www.opm.gov, click on Forms. Fill it out and send it to OPM.
