Information on Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Elective Deferral Limits and Catch-up or “Spillover” Contributions for Military Members


What is the elective deferral limit?
The elective deferral limit is the maximum amount members can contribute from their pay to their TSP account. It applies to both traditional and Roth TSP accounts.
  • 2024 elective deferral limit
    • The elective deferral limit for individuals under the age of 50 can contribute up to $23,000 per year into the TSP.
What is the catch-up or “spillover” contribution?
For those turning 50 or older, once you exceed the elective deferral limit, your contributions will “spillover” and automatically start counting toward the catch-up limit.
  • 2024 spillover contribution limits
    • Those aged 50 and above can make catch-up or “spillover” contributions of an additional $7,500, for a total of $30,500 per year ($23,000 + $7,500).. 
For those younger than 50: If a military member is under the age of 50, the pay system will automatically prevent them from contributing more than the elective deferral limit each year.
 
For those 50 or older:  If a military member is turning 50 or older, contributions will continue until catch-up eligible participants reach the combined elective deferral and catch-up or “spillover” limits for the year.   If you have questions about excess contribution, you can call the DFAS Customer Care Center at 1-888-332-7411 or you can visit your local finance office.

For more information, please visit the following webpages:
 
Active Duty Military Member: https://www.dfas.mil/MilitaryMembers/tspformilitary/tspac/
Reserve/Guard Military Member: https://www.dfas.mil/MilitaryMembers/tspformilitary/tsprc/
Or visit the TSP website:  https://www.tsp.gov/

 

Page updated February 6, 2024