Military TSP Match Calculator

Calculate TSP matching contributions under the Blended Retirement System.
$
%

DoD Match

$2,400.00

Total Annual

$4,800.00

TSP Match Schedule

Your Contribution (5.00%)$2,400.00
Auto 1% (DoD)$480.00
Dollar-for-Dollar (first 3%)$1,440.00
$0.50 per $1 (4-5%)$480.00
Total DoD Match$2,400.00

Use the Military TSP Match Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our Military TSP Match Calculator helps you understand the significant matching contributions you can receive under the Blended Retirement System (BRS). This tool is crucial for maximizing your retirement savings, as even small contributions from the government can grow substantially over time due to compounding. For 2026, the BRS matching contributions remain a key benefit for service members.

The calculator determines your potential TSP matching contributions based on a two-part formula. First, the Department of Defense (DoD) automatically contributes 1% of your basic pay to your TSP account after 60 days of service, regardless of your personal contributions. Second, the DoD matches your personal contributions dollar-for-dollar up to the first 3% of your basic pay, and then 50 cents on the dollar for the next 2% of your basic pay, for a maximum total match of 5%.

A common mistake is not contributing enough to receive the full 5% match; this is essentially leaving free money on the table. Remember that matching contributions are subject to a two-year vesting period, meaning you must complete two years of service to keep those funds if you leave the military. Also, ensure you understand the difference between Roth and Traditional TSP contributions, as the match always goes into the Traditional TSP.

Example: E-5 with 6 years of service in 2026

  1. 1 An E-5 with 6 years of service in 2026 has a basic pay of $3,700 per month. They decide to contribute 5% of their basic pay to their TSP account each month.
  2. 2 Automatic 1% contribution: $3,700 * 0.01 = $37.00. Matching contribution (first 3%): $3,700 * 0.03 = $111.00 (DoD matches dollar-for-dollar). Matching contribution (next 2%): $3,700 * 0.02 = $74.00 (DoD matches 50 cents on the dollar, so $74.00 * 0.50 = $37.00).
  3. 3 Total monthly DoD TSP matching contributions: $37.00 (automatic) + $111.00 (3% match) + $37.00 (2% match) = $185.00.
  4. 4 Over a year, this E-5 receives $2,220 in free money from the DoD for their retirement. This highlights the importance of contributing at least 5% to maximize your BRS matching benefits.

Source: DFAS · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How does TSP matching work under BRS?
The government automatically contributes 1% of base pay to your TSP regardless of your contribution. It then matches your contributions dollar-for-dollar on the first 3% and 50 cents on the dollar for the next 2%, for a maximum match of 5% of base pay.
When do TSP matching contributions vest?
The automatic 1% government contribution vests after 2 years of service. Your own contributions and the matching contributions above the 1% automatic are always 100% yours immediately. If you separate before 2 years, you lose only the automatic 1%.
Should I contribute more than 5% to my TSP?
Yes, if you can afford it. The 5% match is the minimum you should contribute, but the 2026 TSP contribution limit is $23,500 ($31,000 if over 50). Additional contributions grow tax-deferred or tax-free (Roth TSP) and benefit from the TSP's extremely low expense ratios.

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