How to Check Your TSP Balance: Online, App, and Phone
Easily find and understand your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) balance to effectively manage your retirement savings.
The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) functions as a retirement savings and investment program specifically designed for federal employees and uniformed service members. It operates similarly to a 401(k) plan offered by private sector employers, allowing participants to contribute a portion of their income for long-term growth. Regularly checking your TSP balance is an important aspect of financial planning, as it provides a clear picture of your retirement savings progress and helps in making informed decisions about your investment strategy.
Accessing Your TSP Account Online
Accessing your TSP account online provides a comprehensive overview of your investments and allows for various account management activities. To begin, navigate directly to the official TSP website, tsp.gov, using a secure browser. Always type the address directly to ensure you are on the legitimate site.
Upon reaching the website, locate the login section. You will be prompted to enter your established username and password. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is mandatory; after entering your credentials, you will receive a one-time passcode. This code is typically sent to a validated phone number via text message or voice call, or to a .mil email address for uniformed services members, and must be entered to complete the login process. Once successfully logged in, you can typically find your account summary, including your total balance and investment details, displayed prominently on the main dashboard or under a section like “My Account.”
Using the TSP Mobile App
For convenient access to your TSP account on the go, the official TSP Mobile App is available for download. You can find this application on major platforms such as the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. Using only these authorized sources ensures you are downloading the legitimate application.
The initial login experience for the mobile app mirrors the website, requiring your username and password, followed by multi-factor authentication for security. Many compatible devices also offer biometric authentication options, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, for quicker and secure access after the initial setup. Once logged into the app, you can easily navigate to view your account summary, track fund performance, and initiate various transaction requests.
Checking Your Balance by Phone
If you prefer to check your TSP balance by phone, the ThriftLine offers an automated system for quick access to your account information. You can reach the ThriftLine by dialing 1-877-968-3778.
When calling, you will be guided through an automated voice system that requires your ThriftLine Personal Identification Number (PIN) to verify your identity and access your account details. This PIN is typically established during your initial online account setup.
The automated system can provide your current account balance and other basic information. If you require more detailed assistance or wish to speak with a representative, the ThriftLine generally offers live support Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Understanding Your TSP Balance Information
Once you have accessed your TSP account, whether online, through the app, or by phone, you will encounter various figures that represent your retirement savings. A significant distinction to understand is between your total balance and your vested balance. Your total balance represents the entire amount of money currently in your TSP account, encompassing all contributions and earnings. The vested balance, however, indicates the portion of your account that you are legally entitled to keep, particularly if you were to separate from federal service.
All of your personal contributions (traditional or Roth), and their associated earnings, are always 100% vested immediately. However, agency automatic 1% contributions and agency matching contributions are subject to specific vesting schedules. For instance, the agency automatic 1% contribution typically vests after a certain period of service, such as two or three years, while agency matching contributions may vest immediately for some or follow a schedule for others. Account summaries may also reflect any outstanding loan balances or past withdrawals, which directly impact the remaining funds available in your overall balance.