Thrift Savings Plan guides, written by a CFP®
Plain-English explanations of how the TSP works in 2026: what each fund holds, how much you can contribute, how to take money out and how the TSP compares with a Roth IRA. Every guide links to tsp.gov and IRS sources.
TSP Funds Explained
What the G, F, C, S, I and L Funds hold, how risky each one is and what they cost in 2026.
Read the guide →StrategyTSP Allocation by Age
How your mix of C, S, I, F and G should change from your first paycheck to retirement, and why age isn't the only factor.
Read the guide →WithdrawalsTSP Withdrawal Rules
In-service vs. post-separation options, the age-55 rule, taxes, penalties, RMDs and spousal rights.
Read the guide →ComparisonTSP vs. Roth IRA
Limits, taxes, flexibility and costs compared, plus a common order of operations for funding both.
Read the guide →ContributionsTSP Contribution Limits 2026
The $24,500 limit, catch-ups for 50+ and 60–63, the new Roth catch-up rule and how to get the full FERS match.
Read the guide →Go beyond the guides
A TSP Maxing membership gives you rules-based allocation signals for the C, S, I, F and G Funds, backed by fund backtests since 2003 and designed to fit the TSP's two-interfund-transfer monthly limit. $19/mo or $149/yr. Backtests are hypothetical, and past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
Want ongoing help with your fund mix? See what's included in a TSP Maxing membership.
Educational, not personalized advice. These guides explain general rules and aren't recommendations for any individual. Confirm current details at tsp.gov and irs.gov.